Maastricht Treaty at 30: Living, studying, working, trading freely across the EU, facing the future

A key milestone in building the European Union, the Maastricht Treaty 30 years ago laid the foundation for a Europe with a common passport, open internal borders, and a joint effort by European governments to drive their economies, say EPP Group Members of the European Parliament. 

The Treaty signed in the Dutch city in a tri-state region symbolised the effort to create a European way of life that now includes 27 countries, allowing free movement of people, goods and services in a Single Market. The Treaty is also the basis for the EU’s digital and green transition, expanding youth and education programs like Erasmus+, upholding the rule of law and ensuring peace and security.