The Maastricht Treaty Takes Effect and the European Union Is Established

On November 1, 1993, the Maastricht Treaty entered into force, formally establishing the European Union. The agreement introduced a new framework for cooperation among twelve European countries, extending their existing arrangements into areas including foreign policy, justice and citizenship.

From a Signed Treaty to a New Union

Officially called the Treaty on European Union, the agreement had been signed in the Dutch city of Maastricht on February 7, 1992. Its signatories were Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain and the United Kingdom. Before it could take effect, it had to pass through national ratification procedures.

The treaty organised the Union around three so-called pillars: the European Communities, a common foreign and security policy, and cooperation in justice and home affairs. The European Economic Community was renamed the European Community, reflecting a remit that extended beyond economic matters.

Citizenship and the Path towards a Single Currency

One of Maastricht’s changes was the introduction of European Union citizenship for nationals of member states. This added a European dimension to their existing national citizenship, including rights relating to movement and residence within the Union, subject to the applicable rules.

The treaty also established the framework for economic and monetary union. It set out stages towards a single currency and conditions for countries wishing to participate. The euro did not arrive immediately: its introduction began in January 1999.

A Framework That Continued to Change

Maastricht expanded the European Parliament’s legislative role through a procedure known as co-decision, allowing it to adopt legislation jointly with the Council in specified areas.

The Union established in 1993 was not identical to today’s EU. Later agreements, including the Lisbon Treaty, revised its institutions and decision-making arrangements. Nevertheless, November 1, 1993 remains the date on which the European Union formally came into existence.