The Treaty of Rome, signed on March 25, 1957, established the European Economic Community (EEC) and laid the foundation for what eventually became the European Union (EU). This historic treaty marked a significant step towards economic and political integration among European nations. Let’s take a closer look at what the Treaty of Rome says and its key provisions.
Background
In the aftermath of World War II, Europe was ravaged by destruction and divisions. The leaders of six European countries – Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands – recognized the need for cooperation to promote peace and prosperity. Thus, they embarked on a journey to create a unified Europe through economic integration.
Key Provisions
1. Establishment of a Common Market
The Treaty of Rome aimed to establish a common market among member states.
This meant removing trade barriers such as tariffs and quotas to allow for the free movement of goods, services, capital, and labor within the community. The common market promoted economic growth and increased competition among member states.
2. Harmonization of Policies
The treaty called for the harmonization of national policies in various sectors such as agriculture, transport, and competition law. It sought to create a level playing field by ensuring that all member states followed common rules and regulations in these areas.
3. Creation of Institutions
The Treaty of Rome established several institutions to govern the newly formed community. These included the European Commission (EC), which acts as the executive body; the Council of Ministers (now known as the Council of the European Union), which represents member states; and the European Parliament (EP), which serves as an elected legislative body representing EU citizens.
4. Promotion of Social Progress
The treaty recognized the importance of social progress and called for the implementation of measures to improve living and working conditions within member states. It aimed to ensure that economic integration went hand in hand with social cohesion.
5. Common External Trade Policy
The Treaty of Rome established a common external trade policy for member states, enabling them to negotiate trade agreements as a unified entity. This strengthened their position on the global stage and allowed for increased cooperation in international trade matters.
Impact and Legacy
The Treaty of Rome laid the foundation for the European Union as we know it today. It facilitated the gradual expansion of the EU, with more countries joining over time. The principles set forth in the treaty, such as free movement of goods and harmonization of policies, have been instrumental in promoting economic integration and fostering peace among member states.
- Trade: The elimination of trade barriers within the common market has led to increased trade flows among member states, boosting economic growth.
- Citizenship: The Treaty of Rome introduced the concept of EU citizenship, granting citizens certain rights and freedoms across member states.
- Expansion: Over the years, the EU has expanded its membership from six founding countries to currently 27 member states.
In conclusion, the Treaty of Rome was a pivotal moment in European history. Its provisions established a framework for economic integration and political cooperation that has shaped Europe’s trajectory ever since. By removing barriers and promoting unity among nations, this treaty has played a crucial role in building a stronger and more prosperous Europe.