EU Institutions and Governance

Study Notes

EU Governance and Institutions

Represents 65% of EU population, yet voter participation is low at approximately 15%.
Culture of consensus prevails, leading to lengthy decision-making processes that average 18 months.
Trio system facilitates cooperation among the rotating presidencies of the EU.

European Commission

Responsible for proposing new laws and managing EU policies.
Allocates funding to various initiatives and represents the EU internationally.
Enforces EU law and consists of a President, a College of Commissioners, and Directorates General (DGs).
Current President is Ursula von der Leyen.

Legislative Process

Involves the European Parliament (EP) and the Council of the EU; both share equal decision-making powers.
Parliamentary members are grouped by political affiliation, not nationality, with varied representation (e.g., 182 MPs in one group).
The ordinary legislative procedure includes up to three readings of a proposal, primarily initiated by the European Commission.

European Court of Justice

One judge represents each EU member state.
Ensures uniform interpretation and application of EU law across all member countries.

European Council

Shapes the EU's overall direction and political priorities without passing laws.
Deals with complex or sensitive issues not resolved at lower levels.
Sets common foreign and security policy based on strategic interests.
Nominates candidates for key roles such as the European Central Bank and Commission.

Council of the European Union

Also known as the Council of the EU, responsible for adopting legislative proposals in specific policy areas.
Coordinates member states' policies and concludes international agreements.
Develops the EU budget and implements the Common Foreign and Security Policy.
Decisions often made through qualified majority voting: requires 55% of member states to be in favor.

Committees and Working Groups

The Committee of Permanent Representatives (COREPER) prepares tasks for the Council, ensuring alignment with member states' interests.
Other committees and working groups provide support and expertise for legislative and policy decisions.

Description

Test your knowledge of the European institutions, their roles, and responsibilities. This quiz covers the European Council, European Parliament, European Commission, and more. Learn about the EU's governance structure and how decisions are made.