Institutional Structure of the EU Flashcards
What article of the TEU established the institutional framework of the EU?
Article 13
What are the seven EU institutions established by Article 13 of the TEU?
- The European Parliament
- The European Council
- The Council
- The European Commission
- The Court of Justice of the EU
- The European Central Bank
- The Court of Auditors
Which institution has the right of legislative initiative?
The Commission. It proposes legislation which may then be adopted by the Council and the European Parliament. It may also amend legislation as it goes through Parliament.
What is the difference between the Council, the European Council, and the Council of Europe?
Together with the European Parliament, the Council is the main decision-making body of the EU. Not to be confused with: European Council - quarterly summits, where EU leaders meet to set the broad direction of EU policy making. Council of Europe - not an EU body at all.
Which institution is responsible for proposing and administering a budget?
The Commission
Which institution is responsible for prosecuting member states who violate EU law?
The Commission
How many commissioners are on the Commission, what is their office term, and are there minimum qualifications for this role?
27 commissioners, term of five years, no minimum qualifications, beyond ideal traits of the person being independent and competent.
How is the Commission appointed?
The EU Council proposes a candidate for the President of the Commission to the European Parlianment. EP then elects the Commission President. The remaining members of the Commission are elected in cooperation with the President: the EU Council provides a list of candidates suggested by member states to the Commission President for approval. Nominees are then subject to a vote of consent by the European Parliament.
Which institution has the power to censures and fine the Commission?
The European Parliament.
In what way does the President of the Commission have power over the other commissioners?
They get to allocate what commission duties each commissioner will be in charge of.
Does the Commission have to act by a unanimous vote?
No, they can act by majority vote, but they always typically try to reach a consensus.
What two items must the Council vote on unanimously?
Taxes and “sensitive issues”
How often does the Council meet?
When convened by the President–usually once a week
Is the Council required to vote unanimously on all items?
No, but consensus is highly valued and often how issues are pursued.
What does the Luxembourg compromise allow for in Council voting?
Allowed for majority voting, instead of unanimous voting, but also allowed member states with serious concerns an opportunity to voice those concerns.
