We see the blue flag everywhere,

but what is the European Union, really?

It’s a common mistake to the EU

is just another name for Europe,

but they aren’t the same thing.

Europe is a massive continent

made of dozens of countries,

but only some of them belong to this Union.

So,

what is it exactly?

Today, 27 member states

have aligned,

like stars

in a single constellation,

while others shine on their own.

These 27 countries

cover more than 4 million km²,

and are home to over 448 million people.

From the largest, France

to the smallest

Malta

all have a place.

But how did it begin?

After the devastation

of the Second World War,

Europe was divided.

To prevent new conflicts,

Six neighbors agreed

to share coal and steel.

The building blocks of peace.

From that seed,

the Union grew step by step,

creating stability,

prosperity and democracy.

And what about daily life?

Today, the EU is in many aspects

of everyday living.

With the euro,

it's easier to work,

trade and travel across borders.

Students can study abroad,

businesses can grow across countries,

and citizens can move freely

within the Schengen Area and the EU single market.

Who keeps it all running?

The European Commission proposes new ideas,

EU leaders meet to decide the big questions

and the European Parliament,

elected directly by citizens,

makes sure every voice is heard.

Together,

these institutions are like clockwork,

turning in sync

to keep Europe moving forward.

The EU is more than a group of nations.

It's a shared story.

United in diversity,

stronger together,

building a future

no country could shape alone.

Stay with us for more episodes

of EU inFocus.