Treaty of Rome

Definition

The Treaty of Rome is an international agreement signed in 1957 that established the European Economic Community (EEC), laying the groundwork for the future European Union (EU). It aimed to create a common market and promote economic integration among its member states, ultimately fostering political cooperation and unity within Europe.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Treaty of Rome was signed on March 25, 1957, by six founding countries: Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands.
2. It marked a significant step towards European integration after World War II, promoting peace and stability in a war-torn continent.
3. The Treaty established institutions such as the European Commission and the European Parliament to oversee and facilitate cooperation among member states.
4. It aimed to eliminate tariffs and create a customs union to enhance trade among member nations by 1968.
5. The principles laid down in the Treaty of Rome have evolved over time, influencing subsequent treaties that expanded the EU’s scope and governance.

Review Questions

• How did the Treaty of Rome lay the foundation for economic cooperation in Europe?
  • The Treaty of Rome established the European Economic Community (EEC), which aimed to create a common market by eliminating tariffs and encouraging free movement of goods, services, capital, and labor among member states. This laid the groundwork for deeper economic cooperation, fostering trade relations and leading to increased prosperity in Europe. By focusing on economic integration, it also set the stage for future political collaboration within Europe.
• Discuss the institutional framework established by the Treaty of Rome and its impact on European governance.
  • The Treaty of Rome created key institutions such as the European Commission and the European Parliament that were essential for managing the EEC. The European Commission was tasked with proposing legislation and ensuring member states complied with treaty obligations, while the European Parliament provided democratic oversight. This institutional framework enabled effective governance of economic policies and facilitated cooperation among diverse member nations, setting a precedent for future developments within the European Union.
• Evaluate how the principles established in the Treaty of Rome have shaped the evolution of the European Union in addressing contemporary challenges.
  • The principles of economic integration and cooperation outlined in the Treaty of Rome have significantly influenced the evolution of the European Union as it has adapted to contemporary challenges like globalization, migration, and climate change. The foundational concepts of free movement and common policies have allowed the EU to respond collectively to these issues while maintaining unity among member states. Additionally, subsequent treaties have built upon these principles, expanding the EU’s agenda to encompass social policy, environmental protection, and international relations, showcasing its ongoing relevance in today's complex global landscape.

Related terms

European Economic Community (EEC): An organization created by the Treaty of Rome, focused on promoting economic integration among member states through the establishment of a common market.

Common Market: An economic arrangement where goods, services, capital, and labor can move freely across borders among member countries, aimed at enhancing trade and economic collaboration.

European Union (EU): A political and economic union of European countries that emerged from the EEC, now encompassing a broader agenda that includes common policies on trade, environment, and human rights.