European Union countries

The European Union (EU) is a unique political and economic union consisting of 27 member states, each sharing part of their sovereignty for the collective good. This overview provides a glimpse into these diverse countries that form the EU.

List of All 27 European Union Countries

Overview of the European Union

The EU was established in the aftermath of World War II to foster economic cooperation, with the idea that countries that trade together are more likely to avoid conflict. It has since grown into a single market allowing goods and people to move around, basically as if the member countries were one country. It has its own currency, the Euro, used by 19 of the member countries.

Member States of the European Union

As of 2023, the EU comprises 27 member states. These countries vary widely in terms of geography, culture, economy, and political systems. Each member state retains its government and sovereignty but agrees to abide by the treaties and laws of the EU.

The 27 EU Member Countries

1. Austria
2. Belgium
3. Bulgaria
4. Croatia
5. Cyprus
6. Czech Republic
7. Denmark
8. Estonia
9. Finland
10. France
11. Germany
12. Greece
13. Hungary
14. Ireland
15. Italy
16. Latvia
17. Lithuania
18. Luxembourg
19. Malta
20. Netherlands
21. Poland
22. Portugal
23. Romania
24. Slovakia
25. Slovenia
26. Spain
27. Sweden

EU Expansion and Criteria for Membership

The EU has grown steadily from its initial six founding states to 27. To join the EU, a country must meet the Copenhagen criteria, which include a stable democratic government, a functioning market economy, and the acceptance of all EU legislation, including the Euro.

The European Union represents a significant achievement in voluntary economic and political cooperation between independent nations. Its member states, while diverse in culture and history, share common values and commitments to peace, democracy, and sustainable development.

READ NEXT

• List of currencies of the world
• Flags of the World