WHY WAS THE EEC ESTABLISHED IN EUROPE

The European Economic Community (EEC), also known as the Common Market, was established in 1957 by the Treaty of Rome. Its primary goal was to create a single unified market among its six founding members: Belgium, France, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and West Germany. The EEC aimed to eliminate trade barriers, establish common policies in various sectors like agriculture, energy, and transportation, and foster cooperation and economic growth within the European region.

Background and Historical Context

The EEC's formation was influenced by several factors. World War II left Europe devastated and divided, with economies shattered and political tensions running high. The Cold War further exacerbated the divisions between Western and Eastern Europe. Against this backdrop, the EEC was conceived as a means to promote peace and prosperity through economic integration.

Economic Integration as a Path to Peace

One of the driving forces behind the establishment of the EEC was the belief that economic interdependence would foster cooperation and reduce the likelihood of conflict. By creating a common market, member states would benefit from increased trade and economic growth, thereby reducing the incentive for military confrontation. The EEC was seen as a way to bind the nations of Europe together in a mutually beneficial relationship.

Free Trade and Elimination of Barriers

A fundamental principle of the EEC was the removal of trade barriers, such as tariffs and quotas, among member states. This allowed for the free flow of goods, services, labor, and capital within the Common Market. The elimination of these barriers facilitated increased trade volumes, enhanced economic efficiency, and promoted specialization among member states.

Common Policies and Cooperation

In addition to free trade, the EEC also sought to establish common policies in various sectors to ensure coordinated action and avoid fragmentation. These policies included:

• Agriculture: The Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) aimed to support farmers, stabilize agricultural markets, and ensure a reliable food supply.
• Energy: Cooperation in energy policy focused on securing reliable and affordable energy sources, including the development of a common energy market.
• Transportation: The EEC worked towards improving transportation infrastructure and facilitating the movement of goods and people across borders.

Enlargement and Expansion

Over the years, the EEC experienced several rounds of enlargement, with additional countries joining the community. The first major expansion occurred in 1973 with the accession of Denmark, Ireland, and the United Kingdom. Greece joined in 1981, followed by Spain and Portugal in 1986. The EEC's reach continued to expand, eventually leading to the formation of the European Union (EU) in 1993 with the Maastricht Treaty.

Conclusion

The establishment of the EEC in Europe was a landmark achievement in the history of European integration. Driven by the desire for peace, prosperity, and cooperation, the EEC sought to create a single market, eliminate trade barriers, and foster common policies among its member states. This ambitious project succeeded in laying the foundation for a more unified and economically prosperous Europe, which would later evolve into the European Union.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What were the main goals of the EEC?

   • To promote peace and prosperity through economic integration.
   • To eliminate trade barriers and create a single market.
   • To establish common policies in various sectors.

2. How did the EEC contribute to peace in Europe?

   • By fostering economic interdependence and reducing the likelihood of conflict.
   • By creating a common market that benefited all member states.
   • By promoting cooperation and understanding among European nations.

3. What were the economic benefits of the EEC?

   • Increased trade volumes and economic growth.
   • Enhanced economic efficiency and specialization.
   • A more stable and prosperous European economy.

4. How did the EEC address the challenges of agriculture, energy, and transportation?

   • The Common Agricultural Policy supported farmers and stabilized agricultural markets.
   • Cooperation in energy policy ensured reliable and affordable energy sources.
   • Improvements in transportation infrastructure facilitated the movement of goods and people.

5. What was the significance of the EEC's enlargement?

   • It expanded the reach and influence of the EEC.
   • It promoted greater integration and cooperation among European nations.
   • It paved the way for the formation of the European Union.