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.

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.

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.

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.