Benelux (Twilight of a New Era)

The Benelux is an customs, economic and monetary union in Western Europe comprising three neighbouring countries, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg. These countries are located in northwestern Europe between France and Germany. The Union's name is formed from the beginning of each country's name.

Origins of Benelux
The origins of the Benelux are in the customs treaty singed between Belgium and Luxembourg after World War I. After the economic crisis of 1932 and collapse of the Conference on European Union (1934), talks between Belgium, Luxembourg and the Netherlands began in order to incorporate the three countries in customs unions and further economic integration. The result where the Benelux Treaties (Customs regulation treaty, Treaty regulating foreign trade, Monetary agreement treaty and Common institution and cooperation treaty). These treaties where approved between 1935-1936. Treaties establishing the Benelux are limited to a period of 50 years.

Institutions of Benelux
The Benelux Treaties established
 * Coordinating Council of the Benelux, integrated by the heads of governments. It is the chief political entity and representation of the Benelux. It meets every six months.
 * Consultative Interparliamentary Council, integrated by representatives of the three parliaments
 * Administrative Council of the Customs Regulations;
 * Administrative Council for Trade Agreements:
 * Administrative Council for the regulation of foreign trade;and
 * Arbitration Court