The EU has delivered more than half a century of peace, stability and prosperity, helped raise living standards and launched a single European currency: the euro. More than 340 million EU citizens in 19 countries now use it as their currency and enjoy its benefits. The EU has also delivered over half a century of peace, stability and prosperity. It also plays an important role in diplomacy and works to promote these same benefits as well as democracy, fundamental freedoms and the rule of law.