Law & Civics
What is The European Union?
The European Union (EU) is a political and economic union of 27 European countries that trade freely, share many laws, and cooperate closely. Most members use a common currency, the euro, and allow free movement of people and goods.
See it, don’t just read it.
Watch a 2-minute lesson with voice + animation that explains the european union.
Key things to understand
- 127 member countries cooperating economically and politically.
- 2A single market lets goods, services, money, and people move freely.
- 3Many members share the euro currency.
- 4It sets shared rules and has its own parliament and institutions.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the purpose of the EU?
- To promote peace, prosperity, and cooperation through a shared market and common policies.
- What is the eurozone?
- The group of EU countries that use the euro as their currency.
- Is the UK in the EU?
- No — the UK left the EU ('Brexit') in 2020.