Europe Day 2017

Eurofound staff explains what Europe means to them to commemorate the 60th Anniversary of the Treaty of Rome #EU60

Sixty years ago in Rome, the foundations were laid for the Europe that we know today. It established a common market where people, goods, services and capital can move freely. More importantly, it created the conditions for prosperity and stability for European citizens, which has resulted in the longest period of peace in across the European continent.

To mark and celebrate Schuman Day on 9 May, Eurofound staff explain what Europe means to them, in conjunction with activities to mark the day in other EU Institutions and Agencies in Europe and around the world.

40_year_dial_-_adobe_export_300_dpi_page_2_small230.png Created in 1975, the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions (Eurofound) was set up to contribute to the planning and establishment of better living and working conditions through action designed to increase and disseminate knowledge likely to assist this development. The goal then was to help policymakers shape a better future for its citizens. More than forty years on and now charting 28 countries and 520 million people, that goal remains as critical today as ever before. This is Eurofound's interactive 40th anniversary timeline and brochure.

photo_jmeeu60story_shutterstock_454740166_small.jpg My #EU60 story - Juan Menéndez-Valdés In 1957, when European leaders were signing the Treaty of Rome, my parents were a newly married couple setting up house in Spain. My father warned against spending too much on the (coal) kitchen as 'butano' domestic gas should soon be available in the country. Read Juan's #EU60 story

photo_mcueu60story_shutterstock_328394555_small.jpg My #EU60 story  - Mary McCaughey 'I have no problem with migrants', said the man at the side of the football pitch.  'Except that they have so many children and they can't speak English properly'. 'Like me' said my husband, gesturing to his four offspring and exaggerating his heavy accent.  'No, no', said the man. 'Not like you at all! You're French, you're fine.' Read Mary's #EU60 story

photo_jhieu60story_shutterstock_531448747_small.jpg My #EU60 story  -  James Higgins The Ireland that I am from is often characterised by borders and division; a place where people are separated by nationality, culture, identity and belief. These borders are made of tin, brick and mortar and run along houses in Belfast, Derry and Portadown. Read James' #EU60 story