<P> On 1 November 1993 , under the third Delors Commission , the Maastricht Treaty became effective , creating the European Union with its pillar system , including foreign and home affairs alongside the European Community . The 1994 European elections were held resulting in the Socialist group maintaining their position as the largest party in Parliament . The Council proposed Jacques Santer as Commission President but he was seen as a second choice candidate , undermining his position . Parliament narrowly approved Santer but his commission gained greater support , being approved by 416 votes to 103 . Santer had to use his new powers under Maastricht to flex greater control over his choice of Commissioners . They took office on 23 January 1995 . </P>
<P> On 1 November 1993 , under the third Delors Commission , the Maastricht Treaty became effective , creating the European Union with its pillar system , including foreign and home affairs alongside the European Community . The 1994 European elections were held resulting in the Socialist group maintaining their position as the largest party in Parliament . The Council proposed Jacques Santer as Commission President but he was seen as a second choice candidate , undermining his position . Parliament narrowly approved Santer but his commission gained greater support , being approved by 416 votes to 103 . Santer had to use his new powers under Maastricht to flex greater control over his choice of Commissioners . They took office on 23 January 1995 . </P>
when did the european union start and for what main reason
when did the european union start and for what main reason
1 November 1993
1 November 1993