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European Ombudsman. Deals with citizen’s complaints about maladministration by any
EU institution or body.

European Investment Bank. Helps achieve EU objective by financing investment
projects.

The EU’s Clout As a unit the EU has much more economic, social, technological, commercial and
political clout than individual efforts of its members. The EU has built a single market and launched a

single European currency: the Euro. It is seen as a leading trade power in the world. It has also done
commendable work in environment and wildlife protection.

Background of EU

Maastricht Treaty

This Treaty was signed on December 11, 1991, by twelve countries of the European Community (EC)
to form a political and monetary union. The Treaty came into force from November 1, 1993, after its
ratification by member countries. The emergence of European Union is seen as one of the greatest

historic events of that century. It is argued that the quest for unity in Europe is based on common
cultural values of various nationalities in the EU.

The objectives of the Maastricht Treaty are:

Economic and monetary union, ultimately including a single currency.

A common foreign and security policy, which might in time lead to a common defence.

Close co-operation on justice and home affairs.

Economic Integration

Single market (freedom of movement of goods, services, labour and capital).

Economic and monetary union, including single currency and common central bank.

Common policies on agriculture, transport, research and technology.

Single citizenship

Launch of Euro