The European Union (EU) recently marked the 60th anniversary of the Treaties of Rome, using the occasion to celebrate the Union’s accomplishments and look forward to its future with 27 member states.
 
"Our parents and grandparents founded this union with one common vision: never again war,” said European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker. “It was their strong conviction that breaking down barriers, working together – and not against each other – makes us all stronger. History has proven them right. For 60 years, the values on which this union is built have not changed: Peace, freedom, tolerance, solidarity and the rule of law bind and unite us.”
 
Part of the EU’s celebrations of the 60th anniversary included the presentation of the European Commission’s White Paper on the Future of Europe, which considers five key issues for the union moving forward: developing Europe’s social dimensions, deepening the economic and monetary union, harnessing globalization, the future of Europe’s defense and the future of the union’s finances.
 
“Our democracy, our diversity and our independent and free press are the pillars of Europe's strength – no individual or institution is above the law,” said Juncker. “The European Union has changed our lives for the better. We must ensure it continues to do so for those that will follow us. For now, all roads lead to Rome. After Rome and however it is paved, there is only one way forward: European unity."