In its early days, European cooperation focused on the economy and trade. Today, the EU covers many areas that have a direct impact on the daily lives of its citizens, including:
- Citizens' rights
- Freedom, security and justice
- Economic growth and job creation
- Regional development
- Environmental protection
- Managing globalisation for the benefit of all
For more than half a century, the EU has promoted stability, peace and progress in Europe. It has improved the quality of life of its citizens, consolidated a single market, introduced a common currency, the euro, and strengthened Europe's voice in the world.