2. Union Institutions, Bodies, Offices and Agencies Flashcards
What are the key characteristics of all EU institutions, bodies, offices, and agencies?
Democratic, transparent, and representative functioning, competence division, and balance.
Which political institutions are entrusted with legislative and executive powers in the EU?
European Parliament (EP), European Council, Council (of the European Union), and European Commission (EC).
Which institutions are considered independent, advisory, and technical within the EU framework?
Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU), European Central Bank (ECB), and Court of Auditors.
What distinguishes EU ‘institutions’ from other ‘bodies, offices, and agencies’ in the EU?
Institutions are directly governed by the Treaties, whereas other entities are not.
Which EU institutions possess their own legal personality?
ECB and European Investment Bank (EIB).
What is the primary function of the European Parliament?
Shares legislative and budgetary power with the Council, and exercises political control.
How are Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) elected?
By direct and universal suffrage.
What are the main locations where the European Parliament operates?
Strasbourg (plenary sessions), Brussels (other sessions), and Luxembourg (Secretariat).
What powers does the European Parliament have regarding the European Commission?
Elects EC President (following proposal by European Council) and has vote of consent on Commissioners.
What is the role of the European Council?
To provide the EU with the necessary impetus for its development and define its general political directions and priorities.
Who comprises the European Council?
Heads of State and Government, the EC President, assisted by a Minister, and the High Representative (HR).
How often does the European Council typically meet?
Twice every 6 months, with the possibility of extraordinary meetings.
What are the main functions of the Council (of the European Union)?
State representation house with executive and legislative power.
How is the Presidency of the Council organized?
By MS on equal rotation basis.
How does the Council make decisions?
By simple majority, qualified majority, or unanimity, with qualified majority being the general rule.
What is the role of the Committee of Permanent Representatives (COREPER) in the Council’s work?
Prepares Council work.
What is the main role of the European Commission?
Represents EU interests, acts as the guardian of the Treaties, and is the engine of integration.
What are some of the European Commission’s key powers and responsibilities?
Monopoly of legislative initiative, ensures EU law implementation, and represents the EU externally.
How is the European Commission composed?
A Collegium of 27 Commissioners (one from each MS), the President, and the HR who is a VP.
How are Commissioners selected and appointed?
Commissioners are proposed by the Council and EC President and subject to EP’s vote of consent.
What are the main components of the EU Judiciary?
CJEU (Court of Justice, General Court, and specialized courts) and national courts.
What are the primary functions of the Court of Justice?
To ensure that EU law is interpreted and applied correctly.
What is the composition of the Court of Justice?
1 judge and Advocate General by MS.
What is the role of the European Central Bank (ECB)?
Responsible for monetary policy.
What are the main objectives of the ECB?
Primarily price stability, and secondarily, support of general economic policies in the Union.
What is the function of the Court of Auditors?
Examines accounts of all EU revenue and expenditure.
What is the role of the Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions?
Participate in the legislative process to give legitimacy and represent socio-economic and territory interests.
What is the function of the European Investment Bank (EIB)?
Contributes to the balanced and steady development of the internal market by funding projects.
What is the role of the European Ombudsperson?
Receives, examines, and reports on complaints from EU citizens regarding maladministration in EU institutions.
What is the function of the European External Action Service?
Functionally autonomous EU body supporting the HR in conducting the EU’s foreign policy.
