VL IB: European Policy Making

History of European Integration

What were the Treaties of Rome?

  • New initiative aiming at a wider economic integration
  • March 1957: Treaty of Rome, formation of the European Economic Community (EEC), joined by the ECSC members
  • Institutional structure of the EEC modelled upon that of the ECSC, but less ambitious
    • 1st president of the European Commission: Walter Hallstein (58-67)
  • Under the leadership of a proactive Commission: Early progress on a number of issues
    • By 1961: internal tariff barriers substantially reduced, quota restrictions on industrial products largerly eliminated
    • Towards the end of the 60s: customs union implemented ahead of schedule
    • Internal EEC trade flourished with impressive economic growth rates

Diskussion