EU institutions Flashcards
What are the four main institutions of the EU?
- European Council,
- The council of Europe/ministers,
- The European Commission, - European Parliament
Who is in the European Council?
The national leaders of the member states (PM’s, presidents, etc.)
What is the role of the European Council?
To set the broad political agenda of the EU, i.e. large sensitive issues. It has also become the motor of European integration.
Does the European council have legislative power?
No, it can neither initiate or vote on laws.
When was the European council established?
The EC was established in 1974, but formally became an EU institution in 2009 with the Lisbon Treaty.
Who is in the Council of Europe?
Ministers/representatives of the member states (Financial-, foreign-, agricultural- minister, etc. depending on the specific policy area that is being discussed)
How often does the Council of Europe rotate presidency?
Every 6 months, it rotates between the member states.
What is the role of the Council of Europe?
A/the key decision-making body as a part of the ‘co-decision making’ on EU laws and the budget. It also manages the Common Foreign and Security Policy.
What is QMV?
Was updated in 2014 (Double QMV):
- Support from 55 % of the member states comprising of minimum 15 member states were voting on proposals
- Support from minimum 65 % of the population of the EU
Does the Council of Europe have any legislative power?
Yes, the institution votes on proposals from the commission (either unanimous or QMV)
When was the Council of Europe established?
In 1958 as a part of the Coal and Steel community.
Who is in the European Commission?
1 commissioner per member state. The president of the EC appoints a possible VP and commissioners, who then has to be approved by the national heads of government.
How is the president of the Council of Europe elected?
They are proposed by the European Council and approved by the EP.
What is the role of the European Commission?
It proposes legislations to the Council of Europe/EP, and then ensures that the rules are applied afterwards (watchdog). It also manages the budget and negotiates trade agreements, etc.
Does the European commission have any legislative power?
no, it can only make proposals.