Country Profile: European Union

The European Union (EU) is a unique intergovernmental and supranational organization consisting of 27 member states, which have come together to foster economic and political cooperation. Established following the devastation of the World Wars, the EU has evolved from a regional trade agreement in the 1950s into a significant global entity with its own currency, legislative powers, and foreign policy. The union is characterized by a diverse population of over 451 million, a robust economy with a GDP exceeding $24 trillion, and a commitment to democratic values and human rights across its member countries.

Geography

The European Union occupies a vast area of 4,236,351 sq km, located between the North Atlantic Ocean and nations like Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine. The terrain is diverse, ranging from mountain ranges in the south to relatively flat coastal areas. Due to its geographical makeup, the EU experiences a variety of climates, including cold temperate and Mediterranean conditions.

13,770 km of total land boundaries with 13 neighboring countries
53,563.9 km of coastline
The highest point is Mont Blanc, France at 4,810 m; the lowest is Zuidplaspolder, Netherlands at -7 m

People and Society

As of 2024, the EU's population is estimated at 451,815,312, with a male-to-female ratio of approximately 95 males for every 100 females. The population is diverse, speaking multiple languages, with 24 official languages recognized. Religiously, Roman Catholics make up 41%, followed by Orthodox at 10% and various other denominations.

14.5% of the population is aged 0-14 years
The median age is 44 years
The life expectancy at birth is 77.63 years (2021)

Economy

The EU boasts a GDP (purchasing power parity) of approximately $24.441 trillion in 2024, with a per capita GDP of $54,300. The economy is diverse, with the services sector contributing 66.1% to the GDP, while industry accounts for 22.1%. The EU is a major player in global trade, with exports totaling about $9.783 trillion and imports around $8.953 trillion.

6% unemployment rate (2024)
1.9% of GDP allocated to military expenditures (2024)
100% of the population has access to electricity (2022)

Government

The EU functions as a hybrid organization with both intergovernmental and supranational characteristics. Key institutions include the European Parliament, the European Commission, and the European Council, with its capital situated in Brussels. The EU operates under a unique legal system where treaties and EU law take precedence over national laws.

27 member states currently part of the EU
The legislative process involves both the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union
Universal suffrage at the age of 18 (16 in Austria)

Military and Security

The EU's Common Security and Defense Policy (CSDP) underpins its military and security strategies. The combined military personnel of member countries totals around 1.4 million. The EU has been involved in numerous international missions to manage crises and promote security.

Military expenditures account for 1.9% of GDP (2024)
The European Union Military Committee (EUMC) advises on military matters
No permanent EU forces exist, but multinational military organizations are in place for deployment

Energy

The EU has made strides in energy consumption and production, with complete electricity access and significant investments in renewable resources. In 2023, installed generating capacity reached around 1.142 billion kW, with a substantial share derived from nuclear and renewable energy sources.

100 operational nuclear reactors expected by 2025
2.511 trillion kWh of electricity consumed (2023)
33.1% of installed capacity comes from fossil fuels (2023)

Environment

Environmental issues within the EU include various forms of pollution, alongside commitments to international environmental agreements aimed at combating climate change and protecting natural resources. The climate varies significantly, influencing both ecological diversity and pollution levels.

Total renewable water resources are approximately 1.7 trillion cubic meters (2019)
High participation in international environmental treaties addressing climate change and pollution
Notable air pollutants registered at 2,881.62 megatons of carbon dioxide emissions (2016)

Transportation

The EU features an extensive transportation network, including 5,211 airports and significant railway systems spanning nearly 4.9 million km. Efficient transport connectivity facilitates both domestic and international trade.

Approximately 2,069 heliports in operation (2025)
Railways are critical infrastructure, extending throughout the continent

Communications

The EU boasts a well-developed communications network, with a high rate of mobile and internet penetration. By 2023, 90% of the population were internet users, reflecting the union's commitment to digital access and communication technologies.

552.316 million mobile cellular subscriptions (2022)
155.005 million fixed-line subscriptions (2022)
High fixed broadband coverage at 39 subscriptions per 100 inhabitants (2022)

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Population	451,815,312	2024 estimate
Area	4,236,351 sq km
GDP (PPP)	$24.441 trillion	2024 estimate
GDP per capita	$54,300	2024 estimate
Unemployment rate	6%	2024 estimate
Electricity access	100%	2022 estimate
Military expenditures	1.9% of GDP	2024 estimate
Life expectancy	77.63 years	2021 estimate
Birth rate	8.9 births/1,000 population	2024 estimate
Total fertility rate	1.54 children/woman	2024 estimate