The European Union (EU) comprises a complex network of organizations and governing bodies. These political institutions make decisions which affect the lives of citizens across Europe. In order to understand how they work and the powers they wield, it is important to start with a brief introduction to the EU’s political institutions.
The EU is an international organization consisting of 28 member countries. It was established in 1992 with the aim of forming a closer union among member states to encourage economic development. The EU is responsible for a range of activities, from regulating the economy and creating a single currency, to setting laws and making trade agreements with other countries.
The EU’s top political body is the European Commission. This organization is composed of representatives from each of the 28 member states. The Commission is responsible for formulating and putting into action legislation which will benefit all members of the EU. They are also responsible for proposing legislation which will be voted on by the European Council.
European Council
The European Council is made up of the heads of government of all EU member states. This political institution is the key decision-making body within the EU. Its main responsibilities include setting the strategic direction of the EU, approving legislation, and allocating funds to different projects. The Council meets at least four times a year in Brussels, Belgium and is chaired by the President of the European Council.
The Council’s decisions must be unanimous, meaning that all Member States must agree in order to pass a decision. If a decision is blocked, it is referred to the European Commission for further consideration and amendments.
European Parliament
The European Parliament, also known as the EP, is the EU’s legislative body, responsible for approving and modifying laws proposed by the European Commission. This institution is comprised of 705 MEPs from all EU member countries and is the only directly elected body in the EU. Every five years, European citizens elect their Parliament’s representatives in national elections.
The Parliament is divided into committees and subcommittees to debate and vote on proposals and amendments put forward by the Commission. The EP works closely with the European Council which approves or amends the Parliament’s decisions.
European Court of Justice
The European Court of Justice, also known as the ECJ, is the highest court in the EU. It is responsible for hearing cases related to violations of EU law and ensuring that all EU member states comply with the laws passed by the European Commission. The court is based in Luxembourg and is made up of 28 Judges.
The court has the power to pass judgement on matters of EU law as well as cases between EU citizens and institutions. It also conducts preliminary rulings which may determine the outcome of cases heard in national courts.
The political institutions of the EU are essential for the smooth running of the organization and the harmonization of laws and regulations across all 28 members. They are designed to ensure that everyone in the EU has access to the same rights and protections while working together to ensure the common good.
With the European Commission at the helm, the complexity and scale of the organization and its activities are being managed effectively. The European Council is the political body which sets the strategic direction of the EU, while the European Parliament is the legislative arm of the EU. Finally, the European Court of Justice is the final arbiter of justice, ensuring that the laws of the EU are followed and upheld.
Understanding how the EU’s political institutions work is vital for any European – or non-European – citizen who wishes to remain informed and engaged on the topics which shape the continent. With a clearer understanding of the EU’s political system, citizens will be better equipped to navigate the complexities of this unique and influential organization.
