More than six decades of peace and prosperity
On the 25 March 1957, inspired by a dream of a peaceful, common future, the EU's founding members embarked on an ambitious journey of European integration with the signing of the Treaties of Rome.
They agreed to settle their conflicts around a table rather than in battlefields. As a result, the painful experience of Europe's troubled past has given way to a peace spanning seven decades and a common market where people, goods, services and capital can move freely.
The enlarged Union sees 500 million citizens living in freedom and opportunity in one of the world's most prosperous economies. Marked on 25 March each year, the anniversary is an important occasion for Europe’s leaders to reflect on the European project, and to look forward at shaping its future.
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