European Community
The European Community (EC) was an economic association formed by six European member countries in 1957, consisting of three communities that eventually were replaced by the European Union (EU) in 1993. The European Community dealt with policies and governing, in a communal fashion, across all member states.The primary goal of the European Community was to foster a common trade policy that would eliminate trade barriers, thereby improving economic conditions for the entire region. Additionally, government officials from member states (who were well aware of the tensions still simmering in the aftermath of World War II) wanted to promote a high level of integration and cooperation in order to reduce the likelihood of future wars.
Definition: The European Community (EC) is an economic organization established in 1957 by six European member states, aimed at collectively handling policies and governance for all member countries. Its main goal is to promote a common trade policy, eliminate trade barriers, and improve the economic conditions of the entire region.
Origin: The origins of the European Community can be traced back to the signing of the Treaty of Rome in 1957, when six countries—Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands—decided to establish the European Economic Community (EEC) and the European Atomic Energy Community (Euratom). These organizations gradually evolved, and with the signing of the Maastricht Treaty in 1993, the European Union (EU) was officially formed.
Categories and Characteristics: The European Community mainly includes three communities: the European Economic Community (EEC), the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC), and the European Atomic Energy Community (Euratom).
- European Economic Community (EEC): Its main goal is to establish a common market and eliminate trade barriers among member states.
- European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC): Aimed at preventing wars among member states by jointly managing coal and steel production.
- European Atomic Energy Community (Euratom): Promotes the peaceful use and research of nuclear energy.
Specific Cases:
- Case One: Through the efforts of the European Economic Community, tariffs among member states were gradually reduced, eventually achieving a customs union. This greatly promoted trade and economic cooperation among member states.
- Case Two: The establishment of the European Coal and Steel Community effectively reduced resource conflicts among member states, lowered the risk of war, and promoted peace and stability in Europe.
Common Questions:
- Question One: What is the difference between the European Community and the European Union?
Answer: The European Community is the predecessor of the European Union. The EU is the result of further development and expansion based on the European Community. - Question Two: Why did the European Community aim to eliminate trade barriers?
Answer: Eliminating trade barriers can promote economic cooperation and trade among member states, thereby enhancing the economic level of the entire region.
