UK Western Europe. Western Europe

Western Europe- geographical and political-economic region of the world. What countries are included in Western Europe? The division of European states into separate regions is quite arbitrary. You can add a territory to the list of a specific association according to one of two groups of principles:

• geographical;
• political and economic.

Classification of Western European countries

Geographically, Western European powers occupy the narrowest part of the Eurasian continent. Based on this, the countries included in Western Europe include:

1. Belgium.
2. France.
3. Netherlands.
4. Luxembourg.
5. Monaco.

Some sources include countries located in the central part of the Old World as part of the Western European region:

1. Germany.
2. Liechtenstein.
3. Austria.
4. Switzerland.

Also, Western European states often include two powers that, according to the UN classification, belong to northern region. These countries are:

1. Great Britain.
2. Ireland.

Thus, most classifications classify 11 countries located on the northwestern tip of the Eurasian continent as the Western European region.

Based on geopolitics and economics, experts classify a number of countries geographically located in other regions of the Old World as Western European states. These include members of the European Union.

This is interesting: what is the system of three worlds?

The list of the Western European region can be supplemented with other states:

Area and dimensions

total area Western European region is about 3.9 million square meters. km. By size they are usually divided into large, medium, small and dwarf states.

Major Western European countries:

Middle Western European countries:

• Iceland.
• Ireland.
• Austria.
• Portugal.
• Greece.

Small Western European states:

• Denmark.
• Netherlands.
• Belgium.
• Switzerland.

Dwarf Western European states:

• Liechtenstein.
• Luxembourg.
• Andora.
• San Marino.
• Monaco.
• Vatican.

It should be noted that the states of the Old World are not equal in their economic and technical development. There are significant differences in social development and the standard of living of the population between advanced and less developed countries region. Moreover, the economic well-being of a country does not depend on its size. Often the smaller countries of Western Europe are more prosperous and economically stable countries.

Population of the region

Western Europe is one of the most densely populated regions in the world. It is generally accepted that modern Western European powers are experiencing a “demographic winter.” The age composition of these countries is dominated by the elderly population. In some regions, such as Germany, there is a phenomenon natural decline population - mortality exceeds birth rate. This is associated with an increase in the rate of labor immigration to Western European territories. The main flow of immigrants, including illegal ones, comes from countries in Africa and the Middle East.

The national composition of the indigenous population of Western European countries is quite homogeneous, since most ethnic groups belong to the Indo-European language group. The ethnic distribution of the population sometimes does not coincide with state borders. In Europe there are both mononational countries and multinational states. Mononational countries include Iceland, Ireland, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Norway, Austria, Italy and Germany. They consider themselves a mononational state, but note the existence of national minorities in Great Britain, France and Spain. Two or more nations live on the territory of Belgium and Switzerland.

The existence of national minorities is associated with the strengthening of separatist tendencies in countries such as Great Britain and Spain. Population of Scotland Northern Ireland and Catalonia insist on declaring their independence from the governments of these countries and the right to independence.

The indigenous Western Europeans mainly profess Christianity. Historically, in northern regions Protestantism predominates in the Old World, while Catholicism is firmly entrenched in the south of this region.

Urbanization level

The level of urbanization in the Western European region is approaching 90%. This is where the largest cities in the world are located: London, Paris, Berlin, Madrid, Rome. These cities play a leading role in the economy, politics, and culture of not only this part of the world, but the whole world.

At the same time, it was in the countries of the Old World that the phenomenon of suburbanization began - the outflow of the population to the countryside and suburbs. This process is associated with an increase in the level of industrial, sound and light pollution in large European cities. Moreover, even in rural areas The urban type of life predominates.

Tourism in Europe

Foreigners travel to the Western European region most often for two purposes: to find work and to see the beauty and historical monuments that this region is rich in.

Tourists are attracted to this region primarily for historical and cultural reasons:

• a large number of historical and architectural monuments;
• high level of spiritual and material development;
• excellent level of education of the indigenous population.

France

The country itself and its capital Paris evoke primarily romantic associations. But an inquisitive tourist should not dwell on the capital’s attractions. There are many in this country interesting places and charming places.

Paris

What to see in this old romantic city? Of course, you need to see the Eiffel Tower and the Champs Elysees, visit Montmartre and the Louvre. A tourist of any age, and especially tourists with children, will find it very interesting to spend a day at Disneyland and plunge into the atmosphere of a fairy tale.

Versailles

No tourist can visit France without seeing an example of luxury and wealth. Versailles - an example of grace and sophistication in architecture, attracts visitors all year round. One day is not enough to enjoy walks through its magnificent gardens, see amazing fountains, and stroll through the halls of the palace. This place makes people fall in love with it, forcing them to come back here again and again.

Grasse

Any modern man knows that France is the capital of perfumery. And the center of this exquisite production is Grasse. Walk through lavender fields, visit a perfume factory and simply wander around the homeland of heroes famous novel Zyuskind - what could be more interesting?

Strasbourg

“The Capital of Christmas” is what residents and tourists call this city. IN holidays it turns into a revived illustration for fairy tales and invites you to plunge into the atmosphere of fun and anticipation of the Christmas miracle.

Germany

Tourist routes of this country are numerous and varied. Germany is rich in attractions, interesting events and in places, beautiful landscapes and resorts.

Munich

One of the most beautiful German cities, home of the famous Oktoberfest beer festival. The capital of Bavaria is rich in museums, concert halls, monuments of religious and secular architecture. And just a two-hour drive from Munich is a fabulous palace - Neuschwanstein Castle.

Berlin

This city harmoniously combines history and modernity, ancient buildings and modern skyscrapers, cozy taverns and trendy nightclubs. What is a must see in Berlin? The Reichstag, the Brandenburg Gate, the Berlin Wall, the Berlin State Opera, the Topography of Terror museum, many churches and palaces, parks and squares - this is far from full list places worth visiting in this city.

Baden Baden

An attractive picturesque town, famous for its healing springs, has been attracting Europeans and residents of other world regions for many years. Here you can not only improve your health and relax, but also enjoy an opera at the Festspielhaus or play in one of the oldest European casinos.

Great Britain

What to see Foggy Albion? The answer to this question may take more than one day. Great Britain is the leader among Western European countries in terms of the number of tourists. Of course, you should start your trip from London and see the Tower, Big Ben, famous bridges and palaces, parks. British museum is able to attract the attention of tourists for more than one day and keep them in the capital for a long time. Where to go next? Tourists can choose between Liverpool and Manchester, Glasgow and Edinburgh, Stonehenge and Offa's Wall. In order to see all the interesting and Beautiful places Great Britain will need more than one vacation.

Western European countries are a rather conventional name for countries located in the western part of the Eurasian continent. They are united by political and economic interests, as well as common historical and cultural processes. Developed economy, transport network and high level of socio-cultural development make this region attractive for both business connections and for the development of tourism.

The article talks about the countries of the European subregion. Comparisons of their current state with the past are provided. Powers are highlighted that have still managed to maintain their positions both on the political and economic world stage.

Western European states

This is a subregion that contains Western European powers. This definition has a geographical context.

The UN positions the region as a community of almost a dozen countries (9):

• Austria;
• Belgium;
• France;
• Germany,
• Liechtenstein;
• Monaco;
• Holland;
• Switzerland.

In the current political situation, EU members are positioned as part of the Western world.

To demonstrate variability political processes It is worth paying attention to the following table:

Table “Integration of Western European countries”

Today the list of Western European countries is as follows:

TOP 4 articleswho are reading along with this

• Austria;
• Andorra;
• Belgium;
• Great Britain;
• Germany;
• Ireland;
• Liechtenstein;
• Monaco;
• Netherlands;
• France;
• Switzerland.

General economic and geographical characteristics of the region

The subregion of Western Europe includes almost three dozen states (26), which differ strikingly in many respects. This is one of the developed strongholds of the world system of capitalist orientation.

Rice. 1. Luxembourg.

Luxembourg is a small state that does not have natural access to the sea. However, it is not only an economic power, it also has significant historical and strategic importance. During the period of Spanish influence, Luxembourg was once important state, which significantly affected the Western Hemisphere.

The countries of Western Europe and the capital still conceal many mysteries and secrets of the past.

Western Europe occupies a leading position in such areas as world economy and politics. In addition, it is the birthplace of significant discoveries in the field of geography and industrial revolution.

Rice. 2. Steam engine in units from the time of the industrial revolution.

The states of the subregion are united not only geographically, but also economically. Great prospects are also noted in political relationships.

Changes within European state and societies that occurred at the dawn of civilization influenced the situation of modern economic and political development peace. Countries from this region are recognized as economic leaders. All this led to the transition to the capitalist path of their development. Countries such as Holland, England and France contributed to this.

Average rating: 3.9. Total ratings received: 167.

Western Europe is the name given to a group of European states united by certain political and cultural geographical basis. In the years Cold War The division was established based on participation in the NATO bloc. After the breakup " Warsaw Pact“A new division of countries took hold. The region of Western Europe now includes Belgium, Monaco, and according to some sources, according to others, this includes as many as 26 countries.

The countries of Western Europe are united not only geographical location, but also close economic and political connections. According to the form of government, about half of the countries are still monarchies, the rest are republics.

Geographical position

Western Europe ranks western part Eurasian continent, washed mainly by waters Atlantic Ocean and only in the north of the Scandinavian Peninsula - by the waters of the Arctic Ocean. Despite the “mosaic” nature of the relief of the territory of Western Europe, the borders between individual countries, as well as the border separating Western Europe and Eastern Europe, passes mainly along such natural boundaries that do not create serious obstacles to transport links.

Economic and geopolitical situation region is very favorable. This is due to the fact that,

• firstly, the countries of the subregion either access the sea or are located at a short distance from it (no further than 480 km), which contributes to the development of economic ties.
• secondly, the neighboring position of these countries in relation to each other is very important.
• Thirdly, natural conditions The region as a whole is favorable for the development of both industry and agriculture.

Natural conditions and resources

The territory of Western Europe lies within tectonic structures of different ages: Precambrian, Caledonian, Hercynian and the youngest - Cenozoic. As a result of complex geological history formation of Europe within the subregion, four large orographic belts were formed, successively replacing each other in the direction from north to south (plateaus and highlands of Fennoscandia, Central European Plain, middle mountains Central Europe and the alpine highlands and midlands that occupy it southern part). Accordingly, the composition of minerals in the northern (platform) and southern (folded) parts of the region differs significantly.

The region plays a very prominent role in the world economy and world politics; it has become one of the centers of world civilization, the birthplace of great geographical discoveries, the industrial revolution, and urban agglomerations. Western Europe is a dynamic region of the world economy, characterized by the specifics of international economic relations.

The hydropower resources of Western Europe are quite large, but are concentrated mainly in the Alps, Scandinavian and Dinaric mountains.

In the past, Western Europe was almost completely covered diverse forests: taiga, mixed, broad-leaved and subtropical forests. But centuries-old economic use territory led to the fact that natural forests cleared, and in their place secondary forests have grown in some countries. The largest natural prerequisites for maintaining forestry Sweden and Finland have it, where typical forest landscapes predominate.

Western Europe. Population

In general, Western Europe (like Eastern Europe) is distinguished by a complex and unfavorable demographic situation. Firstly, this is explained by the low birth rate and, accordingly, low level natural growth. The lowest birth rates are in Greece, Italy, and Germany (up to 10%). In Germany there is even a population decline. At the same time, the age composition of the population is changing towards a decrease in the proportion of children and an increase in the proportion of older people. New for Europe is the influx of so-called refugees from Syria, Iraq and other countries affected by ISIS.

Before National composition The population was quite homogeneous, since the vast majority of the 62 peoples of the region belong to the Indo-European language family.

In all countries of Western Europe, the dominant religion is Christianity.

Western Europe is one of the most densely populated regions of the world; the distribution of its population is primarily determined by the geography of its cities. Urbanization level - 70-90%

The European region, due to the impressive area of ​​its territory, provides for the division of states into several groups based on geography. The countries of Western Europe are traditionally popular with tourists from all over the world, due to the abundance of cultural, natural and historical attractions.

The group of countries belonging to Western Europe is traditionally considered one of the most highly developed and prosperous, since the standard of living and income of citizens here is stable high level. At the same time, the region is characterized by demographic problems associated with low birth rates and insufficient natural growth.

The following states belong to such a geographical association:

• Belgium.
• Germany.
• Switzerland.
• Great Britain.
• Ireland.
• France.
• Liechtenstein.
• Monaco.
• Netherlands.

These countries are mostly washed by the Atlantic Ocean, however, minor areas in the northern part of the region border the Arctic Ocean

Each of these states boasts an abundance of attractions, which is why it is advisable to study them in more detail.

Austria, Belgium, Germany

One of the most popular countries in Western Europe among tourists is Austria. It boasts an abundance of historical attractions, as well as interesting entertainment program. Austrian architecture deserves special mention, as it is an interweaving of different styles.

The hallmark of Austria are various fortresses and castles medieval period, as well as the famous Viennese palaces.

The impregnable Hohensalzburg, located near the Alps, is one of the most ancient fortresses - it is more than 1,000 years old.

The most popular cities among tourists are:

• Vein.
• Innsbruck.
• Salzburg.

However, in addition to architectural sites, Austria also boasts an impressive list of ski resorts. They represent the optimal combination of price and quality, with diversity considered their main advantage.

There are over 1,000 places throughout the country that can be used for skiing. Among them there are both large sport complexes, and relatively small villages, which allows each tourist to choose the appropriate option.

Another popular destination among travelers is Belgium, which is usually included in a package tour to Europe. The small size of this country is compensated by the abundance of attractions and their diversity. While in Belgium, it is advisable to visit the famous Royal Palace, as well as St. Michael's Cathedral.

Map of Belgium with landmarks

The most popular city where most tourists come is Brussels, however, to get a complete picture of the culture and attractions of this state, it is advisable to visit:

• Bruges.
• Antwerp.
• Ghent.

Each of these cities has a unique atmosphere and unique style, which makes it one of the most popular tourist destinations. In Belgium it is relatively underdeveloped leisure Therefore, the traveler is recommended to focus on sightseeing trips.

Germany seems to be one of largest countries region and boasts an abundance of interesting tourist attractions. First of all, these are medieval castles traditional for Western Europe, some of which belong to XIII century and more early periods.

When planning to visit Germany, it is advisable to broaden your horizons by visiting not only its capital - Berlin, but also other large cities - Munich and Dresden, where tourists are welcome National parks, museums, natural attractions.

Switzerland, UK, Ireland

It seems to be a popular destination among tourists wishing to visit Western Europe. This state is traditionally famous for its ski resorts, popular among travelers. However, Switzerland also has many historical attractions and unique natural sites.

In the northern part of Switzerland there is the Rhine Falls, which is rightfully considered the most large object of this kind, located in Europe

In the southwest, travelers can enjoy the beauty of Europe's largest lake, Lake Geneva. His characteristic feature crystal clear, calm water appears, which makes the pond look like a large mirror.

Among the countries of Western Europe, one cannot fail to mention the UK, which is consistently one of the most popular tourist destinations. On its territory there are many ancient castles and fortresses, as well as Gothic cathedrals that deserve the attention of tourists.

It is also necessary to mention the famous British universities, which are not only the most prestigious in the world educational institutions, but also genuine architectural monuments.

Ireland should also be considered one of the most economically and socially developed countries in Western Europe, which can boast of having a unique culture, an abundance of attractions and incredible beautiful nature. Despite this, this direction does not enjoy impressive popularity among tourists, in comparison with its analogues.

France, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg

When planning a trip to Western Europe, most tourists necessarily include a visit to their tour, since this state is one of the most colorful in the region. There are over 40 thousand castles on its territory, and the abundance of cultural attractions and affordable costs of recreation make the destination extremely popular.

In addition to the Louvre, Versailles and the Eiffel Tower, numerous restaurants and cafes deserve the traveler's attention, which will allow you to appreciate the features and nuances of local cuisine.

Among the interesting objects in France is the Normandy Bridge, which is the largest bridge in Europe

The Principality of Liechtenstein, located near Austria and Switzerland, is considered one of the most modest states in the world. Among the local attractions that attract many tourists here, the following deserve mention:

• the city of Vaduz, where many buildings from the early Middle Ages are located;
• Rhine River;
• Castle Gutenberg.

Thanks to small sizes of this country, a tourist will be able to explore the most interesting sights in a few days, which makes this destination optimal as part of a comprehensive tour.

Luxembourg also has a relatively small area, where tourists can find many interesting objects. First of all, this is the National Museum, which presents unique exhibitions, as well as the famous Notre Dame Cathedral, which is an example of Gothic architecture.

Travelers will also be able to appreciate the Grand Ducal Palace and the city of Esch-sur-Alzette, built in the 19th century.

- part of the Eurasian continent, washed by two oceans at once - the Arctic and the Atlantic.

The area of ​​the EU is approximately 10 million square meters, and its population accounts for approximately 10% of the total population of the planet, which is approximately 740 million people.

General information

How many parts are there in Europe:

1. Northern Europe;
2. Southern Europe;
3. Eastern Europe;
4. Central Europe.

Depending on existing opinions, European countries can be classified as one part of it or another.

The highest point in Europe is Mount Elbrus, whose height reaches 5642 m, and lowest point– Caspian Sea, whose height is currently approximately equal to 27 m.

The main territory is dominated by flat terrain, and only 17% of all Europe is mountainous. The climate of most of Europe is temperate, but in the north there are glaciers, and in Caspian lowland- desert.

Europe is the region with the greatest cultural diversity, despite its small territory.

Eastern Europe

The European part of Eurasia, located within the borders of central and eastern Europe, is usually referred to as Eastern Europe. Lives in this area larger number people than in other European regions, and occupies about 2/3 of Europe.

The bulk of the population are people of Slavic appearance. Due to political actions, the territory is constantly subject to change.

So, in Soviet time, the countries of the USSR were included in Eastern Europe, but after the collapse of the Soviet Union, some countries separated and began to be considered foreign.

The climate here is drier and less warm. However, the soils of this part of Europe are much more fertile than those of Western Europe. IN Eastern Europe the largest amount of black soil in the world.

Eastern Europe is the closest part of the Old World to Russia in spirit and territory. The plane flight will not take more than two hours. Go on vacation to nearest countries You can even drive your own car.

Habitual climate and native language will be a pleasant bonus for those who decide to spend their holidays in Eastern European countries.

Western Europe is the territory where everyone is located Western countries Europe. Typically, this includes countries that are related to each other culturally and geographical principles, and who were able to escape Soviet influence during the Cold War.

The climate in Western European countries is generally temperate, with mild winters and warm summers.

Western Europe is one of the most densely populated areas in the world. Urbanization here is at 80%. The largest agglomerations here are London and Paris.

Western Europe is considered the most popular for tourism. About 65% of tourists flock here. In this area you can see everything: from sandy beaches, to mountain landscapes. The mosaic nature of the landscapes is striking in its beauty.

The large flow of tourists has led to the formation of special tourist zones that specialize in providing tourism services to guests.

This article may be of interest:

Everyone will be able to indicate on the map exactly where Europe is located. However, setting clear boundaries turns out to be not so easy.

The geographical boundaries of Europe are northern, western and south sides are the coastline of the seas of the Arctic Ocean, as well as the Atlantic Ocean. These are the Baltic, Northern, Irish, Mediterranean, Black, Marmara and Azov seas.

The eastern border is usually drawn along the slope Ural mountains to the Caspian Sea. Some sources also include the territories of the Caucasus as Europe.

List of countries in Europe

Quantity European countries quite extensive.

If listed in alphabetical order, the list would be as follows:

• Austria;
• Albania;
• Andorra

• Belarus;
• Belgium;
• Bulgaria;
• Bosnia

• Vatican;
• Great Britain;
• Hungary

• Germany;
• Holland;
• Greece;
• Georgia

• Denmark

• Ireland;
• Spain;
• Italy;
• Iceland

• Latvia;
• Lithuania;
• Liechtenstein;
• Luxembourg

• Macedonia;
• Malta;
• Moldova;
• Monaco

• Norway

• Poland;
• Portugal

• Russia;
• Romania

• San Morino;
• Serbia;
• Slovakia;
• Slovenia

• Ukraine

• Finland;
• France

• Croatia

• Montenegro;
• Czech

• Switzerland;
• Sweden

• Estonia.

This is a complete list of states that are European.

Number of European countries

The number of states included in Europe today is 44. But based on the political and economic situations taking place in the world, it cannot be said that this list will not change.

We can take as an example Soviet Union, which at one time broke up into 15 independent states , while the GDR and the Federal Republic of Germany, for example, on the contrary, united into a single whole, and today are called Germany.

Difficult these days political situation takes place in Spain, where the Catalan part is trying to separate itself into a state independent from Spain and be called Catalonia.

Get travel health insurance

National symbols

As national symbols countries display their flags and coats of arms. As a rule, the basis of coats of arms includes animalistic symbols. The image of a horse symbolizes speed and movement.

All European countries are familiar with the myths about the sun god, who traveled on his horse-drawn carriage. But, for example, an elephant expresses reliability and strength. It is his image that can be found on the coat of arms of the city of Coventry in Great Britain.

The state symbols of England are the oldest of all European countries. The coat of arms, which is now official in Great Britain, originated in the 19th century.

The coat of arms of England looks like a shield, in the upper left and lower right corners of which there are three gold leopards on a red background, in the upper right - a fiery lion, located on a gold background - the Scottish coat of arms, and, finally, in the lower left - a harp of gold on a blue field - Irish symbols.

This shield is held by a golden lion with a crown in its mane and a snow-white unicorn.

The symbolism of the Scandinavian countries reveals the history of the countries of the European North. The coat of arms of Denmark has been formed over several centuries. It is a shield with a crown on top, and inside the shield there are four blue leopards in a row from top to bottom.

The flag of Denmark is divided by a red and white cross, in the center of which is its coat of arms.

On state emblem Sweden, until the 13th century, depicted three leopards in crowns, standing on a field one after another, which was very reminiscent of the coat of arms of Denmark.

Only at the beginning of the 14th century a coat of arms appeared depicting three golden crowns, which later became the state symbol.

The original coat of arms of Iceland was a white falcon, but in 1944 a new symbol was chosen: a shield held by a bull, a dragon, an eagle and an old man.

The main symbol of Albania is a black eagle with two heads, which is the Albanian coat of arms.

The symbol of Bulgaria is a golden lion located on a red shield, which is a symbol of masculinity.

The Polish coat of arms looks like a white eagle, whose head is decorated with a gilded crown.

The symbol of Serbia was created during the period of unification of the lands of Serbia. It depicts a boar's head pierced by an arrow.

Macedonia became independent only in the second half of the 20th century, so before this period, symbolism was represented only by territorial symbols. Nowadays the coat of arms of Macedonia features a golden crowned lion.

This article may be of interest:

Population and area of ​​countries

The main giant by all criteria among European countries is Russia. Its area is approximately 17 million square meters, which is almost equal to the area South America, and the population is about 146 million.

However, Russia’s entry into Europe is considered controversial, because most of it is located in Asia, and only about 22% is in Europe.

Next on the list of the largest European countries by territory is worth mentioning Ukraine. It occupies an area of ​​almost 604 thousand square meters. The population of Ukraine is about 42 million people.

France, Spain, Sweden, Germany, Finland, Norway, Poland and Italy present a list of the 10 largest European countries. However, in terms of the number of inhabitants of these countries, after Russia comes Germany, whose population is about 81 million people.

The population of France is in third place in terms of size. There are about 66 million people within its borders.

The most major cities In Europe, London is considered, with its population of 7 million people, Berlin - 3.5 million people, followed by Madrid, Rome, Kyiv and Paris with a population of 3 million.

Which countries are part of the European Union?

The Union of Europe was organized during the collapse of the USSR. The EU is united together for economic reasons and political views states. Most of these countries use one type of currency - the euro.

Union is international education, which includes characteristics of the country and characteristics international community, but in fact they are neither one nor the other.

In some cases, decisions are made by supranational institutions, and in others through negotiations between countries that are members of the European Union.

At the very beginning of its emergence, the European Union consisted of only six countries - Belgium, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands and France. Today, thanks to joining the agreement, the number of countries within the European Union has increased to twenty-eight.

States renounce their sovereignty and in return receive protection in various institutions of the union, which act for the common interests of all participants.

The Lisbon Treaty included rules for secession from the European Union. During the entire period of action, only Greenland left the European Union - in the late 1900s.

Currently, five countries are vying for the opportunity to leave the Union. These are Albania, Macedonia, Serbia, Türkiye and Montenegro.

List of EU countries:

1. Austria;
2. Belgium;
3. Bulgaria;
4. Hungary;
5. Great Britain;
6. Greece;
7. Germany;
8. Denmark;
9. Italy;
10. Ireland;
11. Spain;
12. Republic of Cyprus;
13. Luxembourg;
14. Latvia;
15. Lithuania;
16. Malta;
17. Netherlands;
18. Portugal;
19. Poland;
20. Romania;
21. Slovenia;
22. Slovakia;
23. France;
24. Finland;
25. Croatia;
26. Czech Republic;
27. Sweden;
28. Estonia.

Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland have not agreed to join the European Union and become member states, but they are still participating in joint economic activities.

The population of the European Union as of 2009 exceeded five hundred million people.

All over the earth European Union twenty-four languages ​​are equally used by people. But, as a rule, the most popular languages ​​in the European Union are English, German, and French.

As for religious views, according to surveys, about 18% of the population are atheists, 27% are unsure of their views and 52% confidently believe in the existence of God.