The European Union (EU) is one of the world’s most influential political and economic unions, shaping global trade, security, climate policy, and human rights. With 27 member states, a single market, and its own currency shared by many nations. The EU plays a major role in international relations and regional cooperation. These 50 Key MCQs about the EU offers complete clarity on its history, institutions, treaties, leadership, and current developments. Each question is easy-to-understand style to support exam preparation and general knowledge learning. Find below the 50 Key MCQs about EU.
Key Fact Sheet about EU
| Key Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1993 with the Maastricht Treaty |
| Member States | 27 countries (after the UK left in 2020) |
| Headquarters | Brussels, Belgium |
| Main Currency | Euro (€), used by 20 EU countries |
| Largest Economy in EU | Germany |
| Primary Institutions | EU Council, European Commission, European Parliament |
| Motto | “United in Diversity” |
| Single Market | Allows free movement of goods, people, services, and capital |
| Schengen Area | 27 countries with border-free travel (not all are EU members) |
| Latest Major Event | Brexit — UK officially exited the EU on 31 January 2020 |
1. When was the European Union officially established?
A. 1986
B. 1993
C. 2000
D. 1975
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Details: The EU was formally established with the Maastricht Treaty in 1993. This treaty transformed the European Community into a broader political and economic union. It also introduced EU citizenship, allowing citizens to live and work across member states. Maastricht is considered the start of the modern European integration era.
2. Which treaty created the European Union?
A. Treaty of Rome
B. Maastricht Treaty
C. Lisbon Treaty
D. Paris Treaty
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Details: The Maastricht Treaty is the foundation of today’s European Union. It expanded cooperation beyond economics into foreign policy, security, and justice. It also created the framework for the Euro currency. This treaty is one of the most important milestones in European history.
3. How many countries are members of the EU as of 2025?
A. 28
B. 30
C. 27
D. 25
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Details: The EU currently has 27 member countries. The number reduced from 28 after the United Kingdom left the union in 2020. Despite the departure, the EU remains one of the strongest economic blocs in the world. It continues to shape global policy and trade.
4. Which country was the first to leave the European Union?
A. Denmark
B. Hungary
C. United Kingdom
D. Sweden
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Details: The UK left the EU through a process known as Brexit, completed in January 2020. This was the first time any member state exited the union. The decision had major political and economic consequences for Europe. It also reshaped how future EU reforms are discussed.
5. What is the capital city of the European Union (main headquarters)?
A. Paris
B. Brussels
C. Berlin
D. Rome
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Details: Brussels hosts most EU institutions, including the European Commission and the European Council. It is often referred to as the “de facto capital” of the EU. The city plays a central role in European diplomacy and international decision-making. Many global organizations also have offices here.
6. What is the motto of the European Union?
A. Together for Peace
B. United Forever
C. United in Diversity
D. Harmony First
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Details: The motto reflects the EU’s goal of bringing different nations and cultures together. It highlights that unity does not eliminate individuality. Instead, diversity becomes a strength within shared collaboration. The motto is widely used in EU communication and branding.
7. What does the EU single market allow?
A. Free travel only
B. Free movement of goods only
C. Free movement of goods, people, services, and capital
D. Free visas for all countries
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Details: The single market is one of the EU’s biggest achievements. It allows businesses and citizens to operate across borders with minimal restrictions. This boosts economic growth and makes the EU highly competitive. It is one of the main reasons countries join the EU.
8. Which of the following is the EU’s legislative body?
A. European Parliament
B. European Council
C. European Commission
D. EU Court of Justice
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Details: The European Parliament represents the citizens of the EU. Members are directly elected by people in each member state. It works with the Council to pass laws and approve the EU budget. Parliament is an essential voice for democracy in EU policy making.
9. Which institution proposes new EU laws?
A. European Parliament
B. European Commission
C. European Council
D. EU Court of Auditors
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Details: The European Commission functions like the executive branch of the EU. It has the exclusive power to propose new laws. The Commission also ensures member countries correctly implement EU rules. Its role is crucial for maintaining unity across the union.
10. Which of the following is NOT a member of the EU?
A. Portugal
B. Switzerland
C. Finland
D. Ireland
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Details: Switzerland is not an EU member, although it is deeply connected through treaties. It participates in Schengen and has close trade relations. The Swiss people have repeatedly voted against joining the EU. The country values its political and economic independence.
11. Which EU institution represents the governments of member states?
A. European Parliament
B. European Council
C. European Commission
D. Court of Justice
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Details: The European Council includes the heads of state or government of all EU countries. It sets the overall strategic direction of the European Union. Although it does not pass laws, its influence on decision-making is extremely strong. It acts as a political engine, guiding the EU’s long-term priorities.
12. What is the currency used by most EU countries?
A. Pound
B. Franc
C. Euro
D. Lira
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Details: The Euro is used by 20 of the 27 EU countries. It is one of the world’s strongest and most widely traded currencies. The adoption of a single currency makes trade easier and strengthens the EU’s economic unity. It also gives the EU a significant role in global finance.
13. Which country uses the Euro but is NOT in the EU?
A. Norway
B. Switzerland
C. Kosovo
D. Ukraine
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Details: Kosovo uses the Euro even though it is not an EU member state. This adoption was unilateral and not part of an EU agreement. It helps stabilize Kosovo’s economy and simplifies financial transactions. The Euro’s influence extends beyond official EU borders.
14. Which of the following countries is NOT a part of the Schengen Area?
A. Spain
B. Poland
C. Ireland
D. Germany
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Details: Ireland opted out of the Schengen Agreement due to its close border relationship with the UK. Instead, it follows the Common Travel Area rules. This allows smooth travel between Ireland and the UK. Despite being in the EU, Ireland maintains different border policies.
15. Where is the European Court of Justice located?
A. Brussels
B. Luxembourg
C. Paris
D. Vienna
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Details: The Court of Justice of the European Union is based in Luxembourg City. It interprets EU law and ensures it is applied uniformly across all member states. The court plays a vital role in protecting citizens’ rights under EU treaties. Its decisions shape European legal systems significantly.
16. Which treaty strengthened the EU and introduced the post of President of the European Council?
A. Rome Treaty
B. Lisbon Treaty
C. Amsterdam Treaty
D. Paris Treaty
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Details: The Lisbon Treaty came into effect in 2009 and modernized the EU’s governance structure. It created more stable leadership roles, including the permanent President of the European Council. It also expanded the powers of the European Parliament. The treaty made EU institutions more democratic and efficient.
17. What is the main purpose of the Schengen Agreement?
A. Common currency
B. Border-free travel
C. Military cooperation
D. Agricultural policy
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Details: Schengen allows people to travel across member countries without passport checks. This makes tourism and business travel much easier. The zone is one of the largest free-movement areas in the world. It represents one of Europe’s biggest achievements in mobility.
18. Which EU policy supports farmers?
A. Common Travel Policy
B. Common Agricultural Policy (CAP)
C. Europe Green Deal
D. Fisheries Agreement
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Details: The CAP provides financial support to European farmers and boosts food production. It ensures stable food supplies and improves rural development. This policy has existed since the early years of European integration. It remains one of the EU’s largest budget components.
19. Which EU body handles competition laws and fines global companies?
A. European Parliament
B. European Commission
C. European Council
D. EU Ombudsman
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Details: The European Commission enforces competition laws to prevent monopolies. It has fined major tech companies for anti-competition practices. These actions protect consumers and ensure fair business environments. The EU’s competition policy is admired globally.
20. The European Parliament elections are held every:
A. 2 years
B. 5 years
C. 10 years
D. 3 years
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Details: European citizens elect Members of the European Parliament every five years. These elections give people direct influence over EU laws and budgets. Voter turnout has been increasing in recent years. It reflects growing public interest in EU matters.
21. Which of the following was the first EU member to adopt the Euro?
A. Germany
B. Spain
C. France
D. All founding members adopted simultaneously
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Details: The Euro was introduced in 1999 as a digital currency among 11 founding Eurozone nations. Physical coins and banknotes were later launched in 2002. The introduction marked a historical financial integration moment. It made the EU a major economic power.
22. Which EU program allows students to study in other European countries?
A. Erasmus+
B. StudyFree
C. EUConnect
D. Education4All
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Details: Erasmus+ allows millions of European students to study abroad. It promotes cultural exchange and strengthens European identity. The program has been praised for creating new opportunities for young people. It is one of the EU’s most successful initiatives.
23. Which country is the newest EU member?
A. Croatia
B. Bulgaria
C. Romania
D. Cyprus
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Details: Croatia joined the EU in 2013, becoming the 28th member. It also joined the Eurozone in 2023. The country has integrated smoothly into EU structures. Other nations are still in the process of accession.
24. What is the EU’s climate plan called?
A. Green Europe Plan
B. Europe Green Deal
C. Climate Union Strategy
D. Zero Carbon Plan
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Details: The Green Deal aims to make the EU climate-neutral by 2050. It includes major reforms in energy, transport, and industry. The plan is central to the EU’s leadership in global climate policy. It combines environmental goals with economic growth strategies.
25. Who is allowed to vote in EU Parliament elections?
A. Only people living in Brussels
B. Citizens of any EU country living in any EU state
C. Only citizens living in their home country
D. Only politicians
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Details: EU citizens can vote in European elections no matter which member state they live in. This supports mobility and democratic participation. The rule ensures equal rights across borders. It is a key part of EU citizenship.
26. Which EU body manages the Euro currency?
A. European Council
B. European Parliament
C. European Central Bank (ECB)
D. European Ombudsman
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Details: The ECB controls monetary policy for the Eurozone. It sets interest rates and regulates banks. The ECB also plays a crucial role during financial crises. Its decisions impact millions across Europe.
27. What does the EU flag’s 12 stars represent?
A. 12 original members
B. 12 regions
C. Unity and perfection
D. 12 languages
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Details: The 12 stars have nothing to do with membership count. Rather, they symbolize unity and harmony among European nations. The design remains unchanged even as the EU expands. It is a timeless emblem of cooperation.
28. Which country held the EU Council Presidency in 2023?
A. Sweden
B. Germany
C. France
D. Italy
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Details: Sweden held the rotating presidency in early 2023. Each country leads the council for six months. The presidency organizes meetings and sets priorities. It is an important leadership moment for member states.
29. Which country will hold the EU Presidency in 2025?
A. Denmark
B. Cyprus
C. Poland
D. Greece
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Details: Poland is scheduled for the Council Presidency in 2025. This gives it major influence over EU priorities for half a year. Each presidency shapes the EU’s agenda in meaningful ways. It strengthens the role of all members regardless of size.
30. What does Brexit refer to?
A. British immigration policy
B. UK leaving the European Union
C. EU leaving NATO
D. A trade dispute
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Details: Brexit was finalized in January 2020 after years of negotiations. It changed political and economic relations between the UK and EU. The process impacted trade, travel, and diplomacy. It remains a major historical moment for Europe.
31. Which of the following countries is a founding member of the EU’s early structure?
A. Italy
B. Finland
C. Greece
D. Bulgaria
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Details: Italy was one of the original members of the European Economic Community, established in 1957. Along with France, Germany, Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands, it shaped the earliest European integration. Italy remains a major contributor to EU policy. Its role has grown over decades.
32. The Schengen Area was formally created in:
A. 1995
B. 2002
C. 1985
D. 2010
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Details: Although the Schengen Agreement was signed in 1985, border-free travel began in 1995. This marked a major milestone for European mobility. It allowed millions to travel without passport checks. Today, Schengen is one of Europe’s most popular achievements.
33. The European Union’s largest economy is:
A. Italy
B. Germany
C. France
D. Netherlands
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Details: Germany’s industrial strength makes it the EU’s economic leader. It plays a major role in shaping EU financial policies. Germany also strongly supports green energy and innovation. Its economy greatly influences the Eurozone.
34. Which EU institution audits finances and ensures transparency?
A. European Court of Auditors
B. European Parliament
C. European Commission
D. European Council
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Details: The Court of Auditors checks how EU money is spent. It ensures that taxpayers’ funds are used properly. The institution helps fight fraud and mismanagement. Transparency is a core EU value, and this court upholds it.
35. Which of the following is a candidate country for future EU membership?
A. Norway
B. Turkey
C. Switzerland
D. Iceland
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Details: Turkey has been an official EU candidate since 1999. However, political challenges have slowed negotiations. The country remains strategically important for Europe. Its membership debate continues at both political and public levels.
36. Which country uses its own currency but is in the EU?
A. Spain
B. Sweden
C. Belgium
D. Estonia
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Details: Sweden has not adopted the Euro and continues to use the Swedish Krona. It prefers economic independence in monetary policy. However, Sweden fully participates in the EU’s political system. The country remains deeply integrated despite not joining the Eurozone.
37. Which EU policy deals with fishery management?
A. Atlantic Policy
B. EU Fish Agreement
C. Common Fisheries Policy (CFP)
D. Marine Solidarity Pact
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Details: The CFP ensures sustainable fishing across European waters. It sets limits to prevent over fishing and protect marine ecosystems. This policy is vital for coastal economies. It balances environmental needs with food security.
38. What is Europol?
A. EU military force
B. EU intelligence and law enforcement agency
C. EU border police
D. EU navy
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Details: Europol helps member states fight serious crime and terrorism. It coordinates intelligence and supports cross-border investigations. The agency plays a key role in protecting European citizens. Its cooperation network is one of the strongest in the world.
39. Which of these countries is part of both the EU and NATO?
A. Austria
B. Ireland
C. Portugal
D. Sweden (joined NATO 2024)
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Details: Portugal is a long-standing member of both organizations. This dual membership strengthens its defense and diplomatic strategy. Many EU countries also belong to NATO. Together, they form one of the world’s most powerful alliances.
40. What is the EU’s main foreign policy body?
A. European External Action Service (EEAS)
B. European Parliament
C. European Commission
D. EU Ombudsman
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Details: The EEAS manages the EU’s foreign relations and diplomacy. It works like a foreign ministry for the EU. The organization maintains global partnerships and peace missions. It represents the EU’s voice on the world stage.
41. Who enforces EU consumer protection laws?
A. World Trade Organization
B. National governments only
C. European Commission
D. Trade Unions
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Details: The Commission ensures companies follow EU consumer rules. This includes safety standards, fair pricing, and product transparency. Its actions protect millions of buyers across Europe. The EU is known for having some of the strongest consumer protections in the world.
42. Which EU country has the largest population?
A. Italy
B. France
C. Germany
D. Poland
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Details: Germany’s population makes it a central political and economic leader. Its decisions influence EU-wide policies. It also hosts significant immigrant communities. The country is crucial in shaping Europe’s future direction.
43. Which of the following is a benefit of EU membership?
A. Access to single market
B. Free trade only with Asia
C. Mandatory adoption of the Euro
D. Automatic NATO membership
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Details: The single market is one of the EU’s biggest strengths. It allows businesses to sell goods and services anywhere in the union. It also allows workers and students to move freely. The system greatly boosts economic cooperation.
44. Which of these countries is NOT an EU candidate?
A. Serbia
B. Montenegro
C. Albania
D. Norway
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Details: Norway is not pursuing EU membership and remains outside the union. However, it participates in the European Economic Area (EEA). This gives Norway access to the single market. The country values its independence while maintaining close European ties.
45. What is the EU’s main human rights document called?
A. EU Freedom Act
B. Charter of Fundamental Rights
C. Human Rights Treaty
D. Liberty Framework
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Details: The Charter protects rights such as privacy, equality, and freedom of expression. It applies to all EU institutions and member states when implementing EU law. The document strengthens the EU’s commitment to democracy. It reflects shared European values.
46. What is the EU’s biggest trading partner as of 2025?
A. USA
B. China
C. India
D. Russia
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Details: The United States remains the EU’s top trading partner. Their economic relationship covers goods, services, and investments. Both regions share strong political ties. This partnership shapes global trade trends.
47. Which EU institution directly represents citizens?
A. European Council
B. European Parliament
C. European Commission
D. Court of Justice
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Details: Members of the European Parliament are elected by the people. This makes it the democratic heart of the EU. Parliament works closely with other institutions to pass laws. Its role has grown significantly over time.
48. Which of the following is true about EU citizenship?
A. Only available to politicians
B. Granted only after 10 years of residency
C. Automatically given to anyone holding citizenship of an EU country
D. Available through application
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Details: EU citizenship offers rights like free movement, voting, and protection abroad. It is not separate from national citizenship. Anyone who belongs to an EU member state automatically becomes an EU citizen. The status strengthens unity and shared identity.
49. What does the EU’s digital strategy focus on?
A. Increasing taxes
B. Reducing technology use
C. Promoting artificial intelligence, cyber security, and digital innovation
D. Reducing internet connectivity
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Details: The EU aims to become a leader in AI and secure technologies. The digital strategy promotes safe and innovative digital transformation. It supports businesses and individuals in adapting to new technologies. Cyber security is also a major focus due to increasing global threats.
50. What is the long-term vision of the European Union?
A. Political fragmentation
B. Reduced cooperation
C. Stronger unity, digital transformation, and climate leadership
D. Abandoning the single market
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Details: The EU’s long-term goals include deeper integration and global leadership. It plans to invest heavily in green energy, digital technologies, and sustainable development. The union continues working toward peace, stability, and economic strength. These priorities define Europe’s future direction.
The European Union (EU) continues to influence the modern areas of global politics, trade, climate action, and technological innovation. To better understand its institutions, policies, and history, it is important for students and candidates for exams or anyone interested in global affairs to know some basic, objective facts about the EU. These 50 EU MCQs are an efficient and holistic summary with explanations that are for people! Connect for more MCQs on IGOs, geography, economics and global contemporary affairs.