Main Institutions Of The EU Flashcards
European Parliament
Co-legislator.
The strengthening of the role of the EP is an aspect of decreasing the democratic deficit in the EU. It also controls the EU executive, i.e. the European Commission.
Takes part in establishment of other institutions and bodies of the EU. For example it elects the European Ombudsman.
In external relations of the EU - either is consulted or its consent is required in the procedure of conclusion of international agreements.
European Council
Provides the Union with the necessary impetus for its development and shall define the general political directions and priorities thereof. It shall not exercise legislative functions.
Art 7(2) TEU
The European Council acting by unanimity on a proposal by one third of the Member States or by the Commission and after obtaining the consent of the European Parliament, may determine the existence of a serious and persistent breach by a Member State of the values referred to in Article 2, after inviting the Member State in question to submit its observations.
Is the European Council involved in the procedures of Treaty amendments?
Yes. The treaties may be amended on the basis of simplified procedures by the European Council’s decision taken by unanimity.
The Council of the European Union
Co-legislator together with EU Parliament.
May by acting by a qualified majority, decide to suspend certain of the rights deriving from the application of the Treaties to the Member State in question, including the voting rights of the representative of the government of that Member State in the Council.
It takes part in establishing other institutions, bodies and offices in the European Union.
European Commission
Executive power of the European Union. Apart
Proposes the adoption of the Union legislative acts.
In international relations European Commission is responsible for negotiation international agreements (see article 218 TFUE).
Article 267 TFEU
The Court of Justice of the European Union shall have jurisdiction to give preliminary rulings concerning:
•the interpretation of the Treaties;
•the validity and interpretation of acts of the institutions, bodies, offices or agencies of the Union
The Court of Auditors
The Court of Auditors shall carry out the Union’s audit. Does not hear cases like the Court of Justice of the EU
Original three-pillar structure of the EU
- 3 Communities
- Common Foreign and Security Policy
- Co-operation on Justice and Home Affairs
Europe of variable geometry as established by TEU
Incorporates supranational elements and intergovernmental elements
Values of the EU
Art 2 TEU
Withdrawal from the EU
Art 50 TEU
Particular dimension of pacta sunt servanda principle
Obligations of the Member States towards EU may be executed by EU institutions in special procedures. The Member States are obliged to provide for full effectiveness of EU law.
Principle of single institutiomal framework
Art 13 (1) TEU
