Treaty of Rome

3 key takeaways

• The Treaty of Rome established the European Economic Community (EEC) in 1957.
• It aimed to create a common market and promote economic integration among six founding member states.
• The treaty laid the groundwork for the European Union and its subsequent treaties and expansions.

What is the Treaty of Rome?

The Treaty of Rome is a seminal international agreement signed on March 25, 1957, by six European countries: Belgium, France, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and West Germany. The treaty established the European Economic Community (EEC) and the European Atomic Energy Community (EURATOM). It is one of the key treaties that laid the foundation for the European Union (EU).

Objectives of the Treaty of Rome

The Treaty of Rome had several primary objectives:

• Common market: The treaty aimed to establish a common market among the member states, allowing for the free movement of goods, services, capital, and labor.
• Economic integration: The treaty sought to promote closer economic integration among the member states, fostering economic growth and stability through cooperation and the removal of trade barriers.
• Improved standards of living: By promoting economic integration and growth, the treaty aimed to improve the standard of living and working conditions for the citizens of the member states.
• Peace and stability: The treaty was also a step towards ensuring lasting peace and stability in Europe by encouraging economic interdependence and cooperation among former adversaries.

Key provisions of the Treaty of Rome

The Treaty of Rome included several key provisions to achieve its objectives:

• Customs union: The treaty established a customs union among the member states, eliminating tariffs and quotas on intra-community trade while adopting a common external tariff for goods imported from non-member countries.
• Common policies: The treaty called for the development of common policies in areas such as agriculture, transport, and competition to ensure a level playing field and coordinated economic growth.
• Institutions: The treaty created several key institutions to oversee and implement its provisions, including the European Commission, the Council of Ministers, the European Parliament, and the European Court of Justice.
• Social and regional development: The treaty aimed to reduce disparities in regional development and promote social progress by encouraging investment in less-developed areas and supporting social initiatives.

Impact of the Treaty of Rome

The Treaty of Rome had a profound impact on European integration:

• Foundation of the EU: The EEC established by the Treaty of Rome evolved into the European Union through subsequent treaties and expansions, becoming one of the most significant economic and political entities in the world.
• Economic growth: The creation of a common market and the removal of trade barriers spurred economic growth and increased trade among member states, contributing to higher standards of living and economic stability.
• Political cooperation: The treaty fostered greater political cooperation among European countries, laying the groundwork for deeper integration in areas such as foreign policy, security, and justice.

Legacy of the Treaty of Rome

The legacy of the Treaty of Rome is evident in the ongoing development and success of the European Union:

• Single Market: The EEC’s common market has evolved into the EU’s single market, which encompasses not only economic integration but also social, environmental, and political cooperation.
• Expansion: The principles and frameworks established by the Treaty of Rome have guided the EU’s expansion from six founding members to 27 member states, promoting peace, stability, and prosperity across Europe.
• Institutional development: The institutions created by the Treaty of Rome have grown in scope and influence, playing crucial roles in shaping EU policies and ensuring the implementation of its objectives.

Understanding the Treaty of Rome is essential for comprehending the origins and evolution of the European Union. For further exploration, topics such as the history of European integration, the Maastricht Treaty, and the role of EU institutions provide deeper insights into the treaty’s significance and impact on European and global affairs.