What Did the Treaty of Rome 1957 Do?

By Robert Palmer

The Treaty of Rome, signed in 1957, was a milestone in the history of European integration. This treaty laid the foundation for the creation of the European Economic Community (EEC) and the European Atomic Energy Community (EURATOM). Let’s delve into what this historic agreement achieved.

Establishment of the EEC

The primary aim of the Treaty of Rome was to establish the EEC, which aimed to promote economic integration among its member states. The EEC sought to create a common market, with free movement of goods, services, capital, and people.

Elimination of Trade Barriers

One of the key provisions of the Treaty was the elimination of trade barriers between member states. This meant that tariffs and quotas on goods traded within the EEC were gradually abolished. By removing these barriers, member states could trade more freely with each other, stimulating economic growth and prosperity.

Harmonization of Policies

The Treaty also aimed to harmonize economic policies among member states. This involved aligning regulations related to competition, agriculture, transport, and other sectors. By establishing common rules for economic activities, businesses within the EEC could operate on a level playing field and benefit from increased market access.

The Creation of EURATOM

In addition to establishing the EEC, the Treaty also created EURATOM. This community focused on developing nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. By pooling resources and expertise in nuclear research and development, member states could harness atomic energy for electricity generation while ensuring its safe use.

Impacts and Significance

The Treaty of Rome had far-reaching impacts on Europe’s political landscape and integration process:

  • Economic Growth: The establishment of a common market within the EEC contributed significantly to economic growth in member states.
  • Increased Trade: Removal of trade barriers facilitated increased trade volumes among member states.
  • Job Creation: The free movement of labor within the EEC created job opportunities and enhanced labor mobility.
  • Peace and Stability: By fostering economic cooperation, the Treaty helped promote peace and stability in Europe after years of conflict.

In Conclusion

The Treaty of Rome, signed in 1957, laid the foundations for the European Economic Community (EEC) and the European Atomic Energy Community (EURATOM). Through the establishment of a common market and the elimination of trade barriers, it fostered economic integration among member states. This treaty played a crucial role in shaping Europe’s political landscape and paved the way for further European integration initiatives.