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European Union

Principles, countries, history

Principles and values
The common principles and values that underlie life in the EU: freedom, democracy, equality and the rule of law, promoting peace and stability.
Achievements
Discover what the EU does for citizens, how it protects rights, promotes prosperity and strives to make the world a safer place.
EU countries
Find out more about EU countries, their government and economy, their role in the EU, use of the euro, membership of the Schengen area or location on the map.
EU enlargement
Enlargement happens when new countries join the European Union. This has taken place several times in the EU’s history, each time transforming both the EU and the countries that join.
History of the EU
The major events in the history of the EU, how the EU has developed over the decades, the men and women who have played a key role in the EU.
Symbols
The symbols that convey the EU and its values: the EU flag, anthem and motto, Europe Day.
Languages
Learn about the 24 EU official languages, multilingualism, and the use of languages by the EU institutions.
EU made easy
Learn more about the EU in these handy publications on how the EU works, from the euro and law, to history and travel.
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Easy to read

Easy to read is a way to make information accessible so people with intellectual disabilities and all people can understand it.