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What did the Maastricht Treaty establish in 1993?
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Europe
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The Maastricht Treaty, which entered into force on November 1, 1993, officially created the European Union (EU). It restructured the existing European Community into a framework defined by three main pillars: the European Communities, a common foreign and security policy, and enhanced cooperation in justice and home affairs.12
Key provisions established by the treaty included:
- EU Citizenship: Granted citizens of member states the right to vote and run for office in local and European Parliament elections within their country of residence.12
- Monetary Union: Set the agenda for a common currency (the euro) and established the European Central Bank and the European Monetary Institute.12
- Institutional Reform: Increased the accountability of the European Commission to the Parliament and granted the European Court of Justice authority to impose fines for noncompliance.2
- Expanded Competencies: Broadened the EU's authority over areas such as public health, consumer protection, and environmental policy.2