Explainers

The European Union is based on international treaties agreed by all EU countries. Over time, these treaties have progressively defined the roles and responsibilities of the Council of the EU and the European Council.

The treaty introduced changes like recognising the European Council as an EU institution, creating an EU diplomatic service and modernising law-making.

The Maastricht Treaty established the European Union, paved the way for the euro and created EU citizenship.

The EU needs to work on reforms related to values, policies, budget and governance to become fit for the future and to prepare for an enlarged union.

The EU flag is the most recognisable symbol of the European Union. It represents not just the Union, but also the shared identity and unity of Europe. It stands for cooperation, solidarity and harmony among Europeans.

On 9 May 1950, the foundation of the EU was laid in the Schuman Declaration. Its two core principles: peace and solidarity.

Discover how the topics and length of the conclusions have changed between 1975 and 2024 – over 50 years of the European Council’s existence.

An independent body to set common ethical standards and increase transparency across the EU institutions.

What does holding the presidency of the Council of the EU mean?

Discover facts and figures about the number of meetings, the participants and the conclusions adopted by the European Council between 1975 and 2024.