1. BE1002 Shape & size of the EU 1 The European Union European Union will not be complete without the creation of a Europe-wide industrial relations system in which trade unions and employers exercise joint power and responsibility (Mr. Padraig Flynn 1999 – former European social affairs commissioner replaced by Vladimir Spidla, Czech Republic ) There needs to be an “ economic dimension” but also a “social dimension”

2. BE1002 Shape & size of the EU 2 Membership of the EU Why was the EU founded? Which countries were the founder (six) members of the EU? How many members states are there at present? Which countries were the most recent members (2004 & 2007) Who is likely to join in the future? What is the population of the EU compared with those of Japan, USA, Russia, India?

3. BE1002 Shape & size of the EU 3

4. 4 Population from March 2009 EU USAJapan 0 100 200 300 400 499 million 302 million 128 million Relative Sizes 500 China: 1.306 m India: 1.103 m Russian Fed.: 143 m

5. BE1002 Shape & size of the EU 5 The Institutions of the EU executive body The European Commission: the executive body of the EU. Its main purpose being to propose measures and ensure their implementation. Consists of a President (Jose Manuel Barroso 2004-2009, Portuguese), 2 Vice Presidents, 17 Commissioners.

6. BE1002 Shape & size of the EU6 Price level index

7. BE1002 Shape & size of the EU7 Hours worked per week

8. BE1002 Shape & size of the EU8 Life expectancy for a selection of EU countries Life expectancy for a selection of EU countries – (2006 statistics)

9. BE1002 Shape & size of the EU 9 Unemployment rate

10. BE1002 Shape & size of the EU 10 Annual Earnings – industry & services (full-time employees in enterprises with > 10 staff)

11. BE1002 Shape & size of the EU11 Increase in area As from May 2004!

12. BE1002 Shape & size of the EU12 Population change As from May 2004!

13. BE1002 Shape & size of the EU13 EU Budget Revenue 2004

14. BE1002 Shape & size of the EU14 EU Budget Expenditures 2004 Total budget: €115 billion = 1,1% of GDP