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How well do you know the EU? Can you name the European Union Largest Cities or succeed at the European Union Countries Elimination? Here are the countries you’ll need to know for both.
Austria
Austria joined the European Union on January 1, 1995, after a national referendum demonstrated strong public support for membership. This decision marked a significant shift for the country, which had traditionally maintained a position of neutrality, especially during the Cold War. With membership, Austria gained access to the EU single market, allowing for free trade, movement, and economic integration within Europe. Today, Austria is known for its active role in EU environmental and climate policy. The nation is also part of the Eurozone, adopting the euro as its currency in 1999.
Belgium
As one of the six founding members of the EU’s predecessor, the European Coal and Steel Community, Belgium played a central role in shaping the Union. The Treaty of Rome, signed in 1957, officially established the European Economic Community, setting Belgium on a path of deep integration with neighboring countries. Belgium’s capital, Brussels, serves as the de facto capital of the EU, hosting many key institutions, including the European Commission and the European Council. The country’s commitment to the EU remains strong, as it continues to advocate for further integration within the Union.
Bulgaria
Bulgaria became a member of the EU on January 1, 2007, alongside Romania. This membership followed extensive economic and political reforms to align with EU standards, including improvements in its judiciary and anti-corruption measures. EU membership has brought economic development and infrastructure funding to Bulgaria, but challenges remain, especially in terms of judicial independence and corruption. Despite these challenges, Bulgaria benefits from EU structural funds, which support development projects across the country. Bulgaria is not yet part of the Eurozone but has made progress toward adopting the euro.
Croatia
Croatia became the EU’s newest member when it joined on July 1, 2013, after a lengthy accession process and significant efforts to meet EU standards. This membership came two decades after the country gained independence from Yugoslavia in the early 1990s. Croatia’s entry represented a milestone for the EU’s expansion into Southeast Europe, showing commitment to stability in the Balkans. As a member, Croatia benefits from EU structural funds, which have supported infrastructure, education, and economic development projects. Croatia joined the Schengen Area in 2023 and adopted the euro as its currency the same year.
Cyprus
Cyprus joined the EU on May 1, 2004, during the Union’s large eastern expansion. Membership brought many benefits to Cyprus, especially in trade and economic development. However, the political division between the Republic of Cyprus and the northern Turkish-controlled region remains a complex issue for the EU. The EU recognizes the Republic of Cyprus as a member state, and only the southern part of the island fully benefits from EU policies. Cyprus uses the euro, which it adopted in 2008, and remains an important EU member due to its strategic location in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Czech Republic (Czechia)
Czechia joined the EU on May 1, 2004, during the Union’s fifth enlargement. The country’s integration into the EU followed years of economic and democratic reforms after the end of communist rule in 1989. Membership has boosted trade, investment, and tourism in Czechia, enhancing its economy significantly. Although Czechia has not adopted the euro and continues to use the Czech koruna, it participates actively in EU policies and institutions. The country values its sovereignty within the EU framework and occasionally raises concerns about deeper integration.
Denmark
Denmark joined the European Community, the EU’s predecessor, in 1973 along with the United Kingdom and Ireland. While it participates in the EU’s single market and other policies, Denmark has negotiated opt-outs in specific areas, such as defense, justice, and home affairs. Importantly, Denmark is not part of the Eurozone, as its citizens opted to retain the Danish krone through a referendum. Denmark has a strong tradition of balancing EU cooperation with national sovereignty, and it plays an influential role in EU environmental and social policies.
Estonia
Estonia joined the EU on May 1, 2004, following a transformative period after the dissolution of the Soviet Union. EU membership has accelerated Estonia’s modernization and economic growth, contributing to its reputation as one of the most digitally advanced countries in the world. Estonia adopted the euro in 2011 and participates actively in EU decision-making, particularly advocating for digital innovation and cybersecurity within the Union. Estonia is also part of the Schengen Area, enhancing its integration with Europe through free movement policies.
Finland
Finland joined the European Union on January 1, 1995, after a national referendum confirmed strong public support for membership. The decision came in the post-Cold War period when Finland aimed to strengthen its political and economic ties with Western Europe. Finland adopted the euro in 1999 and is known for its proactive stance on climate change, education, and social welfare issues within the EU. As a Nordic country, Finland promotes regional cooperation and contributes to EU security and environmental policies.
France
France was a founding member of the European Coal and Steel Community in 1951 and later a signatory of the Treaty of Rome in 1957, which established the European Economic Community. Since then, France has been a driving force in the EU, pushing for deeper political and economic integration. France is one of the largest contributors to the EU budget and an advocate for the Eurozone. The country plays a leading role in EU policies on defense, agriculture, and climate action, and it hosts several EU institutions in Strasbourg.
Germany
Germany is a founding member of the EU’s predecessors, the European Coal and Steel Community and the European Economic Community. Since reunification in 1990, Germany has been one of the strongest supporters of the EU, emphasizing economic stability, unity, and integration. Germany is the largest economy in the EU and a key member of the Eurozone, as well as one of the biggest advocates for environmental policies and EU expansion. Berlin hosts several EU summits, and Germany’s influence extends across almost all areas of EU policy.
Greece
Greece joined the EU on January 1, 1981, marking the first southern European country to join the Union. EU membership has greatly impacted Greece’s development, bringing infrastructure investments and funding. The country adopted the euro in 2001, though the economic crisis of 2008–2009 severely affected Greece and led to extensive EU-led bailout programs. Despite challenges, Greece remains committed to the EU and actively participates in discussions on migration, defense, and economic policies.
Hungary
Hungary joined the European Union on May 1, 2004, as part of the EU’s eastern enlargement. Membership brought significant economic benefits, including structural funds that have supported infrastructure, education, and healthcare improvements. However, Hungary has had a complex relationship with the EU, particularly over issues like rule of law, judicial independence, and press freedom. Despite these challenges, Hungary remains integrated in the EU’s single market, although it retains its own currency, the Hungarian forint, instead of adopting the euro.
Ireland
Ireland joined the European Union in 1973, alongside the United Kingdom and Denmark. EU membership brought significant economic growth to Ireland, transforming it into a highly developed nation with one of the highest GDPs per capita in Europe. The country adopted the euro in 1999 and is fully integrated into EU policies. Ireland maintains a strong pro-EU stance and actively supports social, environmental, and economic policies. The nation also navigates unique challenges related to Northern Ireland’s border with Brexit, which has reshaped EU-UK relations.
Italy
Italy is one of the six founding members of the European Union’s predecessor, the European Coal and Steel Community, established in 1951. A signatory of the Treaty of Rome in 1957, Italy has been an active EU supporter ever since. It is one of the largest economies in the Eurozone and uses the euro as its currency. Italy contributes significantly to EU cultural, economic, and environmental policies, although it faces challenges related to public debt and migration. Italy hosts numerous EU summits and remains a core member of the EU.
Latvia
Latvia joined the EU on May 1, 2004, following its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991 and a decade of economic and democratic reforms. EU membership has strengthened Latvia’s economy, increased trade, and provided support for infrastructure projects. Latvia joined the euro in 2014 and is also part of the Schengen Area, facilitating free movement across Europe. Latvia emphasizes security within the EU, particularly given its proximity to Russia, and is an active participant in EU defense initiatives.
Lithuania
Lithuania became an EU member on May 1, 2004, following years of reform after the Soviet Union’s dissolution. EU membership has benefited Lithuania’s economy and infrastructure, with support for modernization projects. The country adopted the euro in 2015 and is part of the Schengen Area, which has facilitated growth in tourism and trade. Lithuania remains a strong advocate for EU solidarity on security issues, especially given its geographical location near Russia, and it actively contributes to EU defense and cybersecurity initiatives.
Luxembourg
Luxembourg is one of the six founding members of the European Coal and Steel Community and the European Economic Community. Since the 1950s, Luxembourg has been a core member of the EU, hosting key institutions such as the Court of Justice of the European Union. It adopted the euro in 1999 and is fully integrated into EU policies. Luxembourg is known for its strong financial sector and plays a crucial role in EU economic and political affairs, advocating for integration and cooperation.
Malta
Malta joined the EU on May 1, 2004, making it one of the Union’s smallest members. Despite its size, Malta has embraced EU membership, benefiting from funds that support infrastructure, tourism, and economic development. Malta adopted the euro in 2008 and participates actively in EU affairs, particularly in issues related to migration, maritime policy, and climate change. The country often represents small nations’ interests within the EU and has hosted EU summits focusing on Mediterranean and migration issues.
Netherlands
The Netherlands is a founding member of the EU’s predecessor organizations, the European Coal and Steel Community and the European Economic Community. Since the 1950s, the Netherlands has been a prominent supporter of EU integration, trade, and open markets. It adopted the euro in 1999 and is part of the Schengen Area. The Netherlands plays a significant role in EU economic, climate, and migration policies. It is known for advocating transparency, fiscal responsibility, and further integration within the Union.
Poland
Poland joined the EU on May 1, 2004, after implementing extensive reforms post-communism. EU membership has fueled Poland’s economic growth, driven investment, and supported infrastructure development across the country. Poland uses the Polish złoty rather than the euro, maintaining control over its currency. Poland’s relationship with the EU has seen both cooperation and tension, particularly on rule of law issues, but it remains a strong advocate for EU security policies, especially concerning its eastern border with Russia and Belarus.
Portugal
Portugal joined the EU in 1986, following a transition to democracy in the 1970s. Membership has contributed significantly to Portugal’s economic development, particularly through access to the EU single market and funding for infrastructure projects. Portugal adopted the euro in 1999 and has been fully integrated into EU policies. Portugal is known for its commitment to EU values, particularly in social and environmental areas, and has actively supported policies that foster EU unity and address global challenges.
Romania
Romania joined the EU on January 1, 2007, alongside Bulgaria, after extensive reforms to align with EU standards. EU membership has brought Romania economic growth, investment, and structural funds for development. Although Romania is not yet part of the Eurozone, it aims to adopt the euro in the future. Romania faces challenges in areas like rule of law and anti-corruption, but it remains a committed EU member, contributing to EU defense, migration, and energy policies.
Slovakia
Slovakia became a member of the European Union on May 1, 2004, as part of the EU’s fifth enlargement, which brought in several Central and Eastern European countries. Since joining, Slovakia has seen substantial economic development, largely due to its participation in the EU single market and access to EU funds. Slovakia adopted the euro on January 1, 2009, joining the Eurozone. While Slovakia has faced challenges regarding public finances and unemployment rates, it remains a strong supporter of EU unity and cooperation, particularly in areas of energy security and defense policy. The country has also embraced the EU’s policies on environmental sustainability and has made significant strides in aligning with EU standards across various sectors.
Slovenia
Slovenia was the first former Yugoslav republic to join the European Union, doing so on May 1, 2004. The country was a pioneer in the region’s transition to democracy and a market economy, and EU membership significantly boosted its economic growth and global standing. Slovenia adopted the euro on January 1, 2007, making it the first of the post-2004 accession countries to do so. The country’s membership has provided it with access to the EU’s economic and political benefits, allowing Slovenia to integrate smoothly into European trade and policy networks. Slovenia has also actively contributed to EU discussions on environmental and social issues, including its leadership role in promoting sustainable development and green energy policies.
Spain
Spain became a member of the European Union in 1986, after undergoing a transition to democracy following the death of dictator Francisco Franco. The country’s EU membership played a significant role in its economic modernization and development, particularly through access to EU structural funds. Spain adopted the euro in 2002, cementing its integration into the European financial system. Over the years, Spain has faced both economic crises and recovery, with the EU providing crucial support during tough financial periods. Spain is an influential EU member, particularly in discussions around trade, climate change, and migration, while also promoting the EU’s role in global diplomacy and human rights.
Sweden
Sweden joined the European Union on January 1, 1995, following a 1994 referendum where a majority of the Swedish population voted in favor of membership. Sweden’s EU membership has greatly benefited its economy, which is highly export-oriented. While Sweden has not adopted the euro and retains its currency, the Swedish krona, it has fully embraced EU policies regarding trade, environmental standards, and human rights. Sweden is a strong advocate for European integration, the protection of civil liberties, and environmental sustainability. It also plays a significant role in the EU’s foreign policy, particularly in promoting peace and conflict resolution, as well as supporting EU enlargement.
