#euducation

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Short history

The historical roots of the European Union lie in the World War Second. Europeans wanted to prevent killing and destruction what happened in the two World Wars. Soon after the war, Europe is split into East and West as the 40-year-long Cold War begins. West European nations create the Council of Europe in 1949. It is a first step towards cooperation between them, these six countries are Belgium, Germany, France, Italy, Luxembourg and the Netherlands. Denmark, Ireland and the United Kingdom join the European Union on 1 January 1973.

With the collapse of communism across central and eastern Europe, Europeans become closer neighbours. In 1993 the Single Market is completed with the 'four freedoms' of: movement of goods, services, people and money. In 1995 the EU gains three more new members, Austria, Finland and Sweden.

On 1 January 2002 Euro coins and notes arrive. Notes are the same for all countries. Coins have one common face, giving the value, while the other carries a national emblem. On 1 May 2004 eight countries of central and eastern Europe – among them Hungary - join the EU. On 1 January 2007 two more countries from eastern Europe, Bulgaria and Romania join the EU.

  What is it about?

The EU is a unique economic and political partnership between 27 democratic European countries. Its aims are peace, prosperity and freedom for its 495 million citizens — in a fairer, safer world. So far they achieved frontier-free travel and trade, the euro (the single European currency), safer food and a greener environment, better living standards in poorer regions, joint action on crime and terror, cheaper phone calls and air travel, millions of opportunities to study abroad … and much more besides.

  How does it work?

 To make these things happen, EU countries set up bodies to run the EU and adopt its legislation. The main ones are:     

the European Parliament (representing the people of Europe);

 the Council of the European Union (representing national governments);

the European Commission (representing the common EU interest).

Its symbols:

The European flag

It is the symbol not only of the European Union but also of Europe's unity and identity in a wider sense. The circle of gold stars represents solidarity and harmony between the peoples of Europe.

The number of stars has nothing to do with the number of Member States. There are twelve stars because the number twelve is traditionally the symbol of perfection, completeness and unity. The flag therefore remains unchanged regardless of EU enlargements. 

The anthem

This is the anthem not only of the European Union but also of Europe in a wider sense. The melody comes from the Ninth Symphony composed in 1823 by Ludwig Van Beethoven, ’Ode to Joy’.

On the 9th of May 1950, Robert Schuman presented his proposal on the creation of an organised Europe, indispensable to the maintenance of peaceful relations. This proposal, known as the "Schuman declaration", is considered to be the beginning of the creation of what is now the European Union.

You think you know a lot about animals?

She is launching a project for those kids who are suffering from dyslexia (they have difficulties with learning how to read). The project is about showing the teachers of EFL [English as a foreign language] how to deal with these kids, how to teach them English.

The competition is sponsored by Vodafone, the one who recieves the most 'Likes' on Facebook will win the sponsorship for completing the project.

Here is her site, where you can get more information (even in English).

This issue is quite important for me because my younger sister is suffering from dyslexia, dysgraphia and dyslcalculia!! So I know very well how hard is learning and teaching with these children!