European Commission

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Questions and Answers

What is one of the primary functions of the European Commission?

To propose new legislation (correct)

To represent the EU internationally

To manage the EU budget

To enforce EU laws

Where is the headquarters of the European Commission located?

Luxembourg City, Luxembourg

Brussels, Belgium (correct)

Berlin, Germany

Strasbourg, France

Which document outlines the role of the European Commission as the executive body?

Charter of Fundamental Rights

Treaty of Lisbon

Regulation of the European Parliament

Treaty on European Union (TEU) (correct)

Which of the following is a responsibility of the European Commission?

Drafting proposals for laws Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of governance does the European Commission significantly shape?

The direction and effectiveness of EU governance Signup and view all the answers

Which title of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) specifies the responsibilities of the European Commission?

Title I Signup and view all the answers

The European Commission is composed of which of the following?

Presidents, Commissioners, and various Directorates-General Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following does the European Commission NOT do?

Negotiate international treaties Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the primary responsibilities of the European Commission?

Overseeing the application of EU policies and legislation Signup and view all the answers

How does the European Commission enforce EU law?

By initiating infringement procedures against non-compliant countries Signup and view all the answers

Who proposes the President of the European Commission?

The European Council Signup and view all the answers

What role does the College of Commissioners serve within the European Commission?

It is the decision-making body of the Commission Signup and view all the answers

What is the main function of the Directorate-General (DG) within the European Commission?

To manage specific policy areas and execute day-to-day work Signup and view all the answers

Which institution provides strategic direction for the work of the European Commission?

European Council Signup and view all the answers

What is a key responsibility of the Secretariat-General within the European Commission?

Coordinating the Commission's work and internal procedures Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Overview of the European Commission

Central institution of the European Union (EU) involved in governance and decision-making.
Acts as the EU's executive body, proposing legislation, implementing policies, and ensuring compliance with EU laws.
Established under the Treaty on European Union (TEU) and the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU).
Headquarters is located at the Berlaymont building in Brussels, Belgium.

Key Responsibilities

Proposing Legislation:
- Holds exclusive right to initiate legislation, shaping the legislative agenda of the EU.
- Drafts proposals that are submitted to the European Parliament and the Council of the EU for debate and approval.
Implementing Policies:
- Oversees application of laws passed by the European Parliament and the Council.
- Manages the EU budget and executes sectoral policies (e.g., agriculture, environment, trade).
Enforcing EU Law:
- Monitors Member States' compliance with EU legislation.
- Has authority to initiate infringement procedures against non-compliant countries, ensuring uniform law application.
Representing the EU Internationally:
- Conducts trade negotiations and engages with international organizations on behalf of the EU.
- Vital for maintaining EU influence in global affairs and advancing its objectives.
Managing the EU Budget:
- Prepares and manages the EU's budget, drafting annual proposals for debate and approval.
- Ensures effective and transparent allocation of funds.

Composition of the European Commission

President of the European Commission:
- Head of the Commission; proposed by the European Council and elected by the European Parliament.
- Sets Commission priorities and represents it internationally. Current President (2024): Ursula von der Leyen.
Commissioners:
- One Commissioner from each of the 27 EU Member States, each responsible for specific policy areas.
- Appointed by national governments but require European Parliament approval.
College of Commissioners:
- Decision-making body comprising the President and all Commissioners.
- Meets regularly to discuss and decide on policy proposals and initiatives.
Directorates-General (DGs) and Services:
- Network of DGs responsible for specific policy areas, functioning similarly to national ministries.
- Execute daily operations including policy development and implementation.
Secretariat-General:
- Ensures smooth functioning of the Commission, supporting the President and College of Commissioners.
- Manages internal procedures and coordinates work between different DGs.
Staff and Experts:
- Composed of civil servants and policy advisors focusing on policy development, research, and legal analysis.

Interaction with Other EU Institutions

European Parliament:
- Approves the President and the College of Commissioners; debates and votes on legislative proposals.
Council of the European Union:
- Composed of government representatives; co-legislates with Parliament and negotiates EU laws based on Commission proposals.
European Council:
- Consists of heads of state/government, sets strategic direction for the EU influencing the Commission's work.
Other EU Bodies and Agencies:
- Collaborates with institutions such as the European Central Bank (ECB) and the European Court of Justice (ECJ) for legal oversight and support.

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Description

This quiz covers the European Commission, the central institution of the European Union responsible for governance and decision-making. It explores its key responsibilities, including proposing legislation, implementing policies, and enforcing EU law. Test your knowledge on the Commission's structure and functions!