The EU has 24 official languages. All EU documents and information are written in these languages. The EU is managed by important institutions: the European Parliament, the European Commission, the Council of the European Union and others.

The EU was founded after World War Two. Germany and five other countries formed the first European Community in 1951. These countries wanted to establish a strong economy in Europe. The EU has changed over the years. A common currency, the euro, was introduced in 2002. Today, people in 20 EU member countries use the euro as their official currency.

The EU is a community built on shared values. These include peace, democracy, freedom and equality for all individuals. Values show us what is right and what is wrong. They help us do the right thing.

The EU’s goals include protecting the environment and strengthening the economy. It promotes the wellbeing of people in Europe. All people should be treated equally, regardless of whether they are men or women, where they come from or what their religious beliefs are.

The EU has an equality body. This body makes sure that everyone is treated equally. Nobody should experience discrimination based on factors such as origin, religion, gender or disability. The equality body helps people. Information and advice are offered in different languages.

People in the European Union can travel easily from one country to another. If you come from an EU country, you can move freely within the EU. You can also live, work or study in another EU country.

If you come from a non-EU country you are a third-country national. You, too, can travel, live and work in the EU, however certain rules apply. For example, you need a residence title for a specific EU country. You must have lived in this country for several years and be able to support yourself. You can then apply for a permit. This permit allows you to travel to other EU countries.