European Union

It consists of 27 democratic countries which are located primarily in Europe. Economic and political union. It comes into existence to abate fighting between adjacent European countries. Formed by six countries in the 1950s. In the following years the EU has grown in size (accession of new member states), and in power (by the addition of policy areas). The population is nearly half a billion.

 The 6 charter member states: Belgium, France, Netherlands, Italy, Luxembourg, Germany. The EUs member states cover an area of 4.442.773 square kilometres. It has the worlds second-longest coastline, which is 65.993 kilometres long. It has 7 institutions: The European Parliament, the Council of the EU, the European Commission, the European Council, the European Central Bank, the Court of Justice of the EU, the European Court of Auditors.

The European Council

Gives direction to the EU and convenes at least four times a year. It uses its leadership role to sort out disputes between member states and institutions and to resolve political crises and disagreements. It acts as the Head of States. Its not the same as the Council of Europe.

The European Parliament

Directly elected parliamentary institution. Composed of 736 members who serve the second largest democratic electorate in the world. It has been elected every five years since 1979. It formed in 1952.

The European Commission

The first commission originated in 1951. One of the Commission President (Jos Manuel Durao Barroso) appointed by the European Council. Now he is the leader of the Barroso Commission.

Member States of the EU

1957.: Belgium, France, Netherlands, Italy, Luxembourg, Germany 1973.: United Kingdom, Ireland, Denmark 1981.: Greece 1986.: Spain, Portugal 1995.: Austria, Finland, Sweden 2004.: Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Malta, Cyprus 2007.: Romania, Bulgaria

The Hungarian EU Council Presidency

Between 1 January and 30 June 2011, Hungary will be the presidency of the Council of the EU. It rotates between the member states of the EU every six months. The presidency means political, diplomatic, professional and communication tasks at the same time. The presidency is the face and voice of the European Union, speaking on behalf of all Member States.

Tasks of the Presidency

Organizing and chairing all meetings of the European Council, the Council of the EU and its preparatory committees and working groups. Representing the Council in its dealings with other EU institutions, such as the European Commission and the European Parliament Representing the EU in international organizations and relations with countries outside the EU.

The European Flag

It is the symbol not only of the EU but also of Europe's unity and identity.The circle of gold stars represents solidarity and harmony between the people of Europe. There are twelve stars because the number twelve is traditionally the symbol of perfection, completeness and unity.