The map below shows the 27 member nations of the European Union as of 2011.

France, Germany, Italy, Belgium, Netherlands, and Luxembourg were the founding members.

Image of a map of Europe. The members of the EU are the only labeled countries.

Source: Member Countries list, EU Country List.

Since its founding, the EU has gradually expanded to include almost all of the countries in Europe. To join the EU, a member state must meet the Copenhagen Criteria.

Interactive exercise. Assistance may be required. Click on the images below to learn more about the requirements to join the EU.