European democracy in action since 1979

From a post-war community of six countries dedicated to ensuring peace and economic prosperity in Europe, the Union has grown to 27 Member States and faced challenges, ranging from economic crises to climate change. 

People, goods, services, and capital can move freely between all EU Member States, and over 440 million citizens can settle where they wish inside the EU. Every EU country is required to treat nationals of other EU countries exactly the same as its own citizens with respect to employment, social security and taxation.

The EU is the largest trade bloc in the world and the euro is the second most traded currency on the planet. It is the world’s biggest exporter of manufactured goods and services, the biggest import market for over 100 countries, and protects consumers with strong EU policies. 

The EU and the European Parliament are also important actors on the global stage. The EU cooperates with governments in 150 partner countries across the developing world, as well as with civil society and international organisations. Collectively, the EU and its Member States are the world’s leading donor of humanitarian aid. Every year the EU provides food, shelter, protection, healthcare, and clean water to over 120 million victims of disasters and conflict in over 80 countries. 

The European Parliament is well equipped to represent the interests of EU citizens. Its powers have been gradually strengthened through the EU treaties and now cover legislation, budget and supervisory roles – making citizens’ voices heard in EU decision-making now more than ever. 

Within the Member States, the European Parliament Liaison Offices engage with citizens and stakeholders, manage contacts with national, regional and local media, and provide support to MEPs as they carry out their official mandate in the country. In the USA and UK, the Liaison Offices provide a point of reference to follow developments in the European Union, especially from the perspective of the European Parliament. 

Parliament looks very different now than it did in 1979. The representation of women has steadily increased, with 41% of women elected in 2019, compared to 16% in 1979. There are more political groups, reflecting a diversity of views, as well as more MEPs choosing to be non-attached.