European Union Quiz

What role does the European Commission play in the EU policy process?

The EU executive. Holds the sole right to propose legislation; guardian of the treaties, enforcing EU law and bringing infringement cases; implements the budget; represents the EU in trade negotiations.

What are the powers of the EU Parliament?

The only directly elected EU body. Co-legislates with the Council under the ordinary legislative procedure, so it can amend, adopt or reject most EU law. Shares budgetary authority. Elects the Commission President, approves the College, and can dismiss the Commission by censure. Consents to accession treaties. Cannot initiate legislation.

What are the powers of the EU Council?

Two bodies. The Council of the EU (national ministers) co-legislates with Parliament and shares budget authority. The European Council (heads of state and government) sets political direction by consensus and does not legislate.

What are the powers of the European Court of Justice?

Ensures EU law is interpreted and applied uniformly. Hears preliminary references from national courts (Article 267 TFEU), infringement proceedings brought by the Commission, and annulment actions. Supremacy of EU law

Who is the President of the EU Commission? Name and country represented.

Ursula von der Leyen, Germany

Who is the President of the EU Parliament? Name and country represented.

Roberta Metsola, Malta.

Who is President of the EU Council? Name and country represented.

Antonio Costa, Portugal

Who is the EU High Representative for Foreign and Security Policy? Name and country represented.

Kaja Kallas, Estonia

What image or images appear on the Euro currency?

Windows and gateways on the front, symbolising openness and cooperation, and bridges on the back, symbolising communication among Europeans and with the wider world, plus the twelve stars. Every structure is invented rather than real, so no member state is favoured. Seven architectural eras run from Classical to Modern.

What cities host the major EU institutions?

Brussels hosts the Commission, Council of the EU and European Council. Strasbourg is the official seat of the Parliament, with twelve plenaries a year. Luxembourg hosts the Court of Justice, General Court, Court of Auditors and EIB. Frankfurt hosts the European Central Bank.

Treaty of Rome

Created the common market and customs union, laying the foundation for the four freedoms

Maastricht Treaty

Created the European Union itself on a three-pillar structure, introduced EU citizenship, and set out the path to monetary union and the euro.

Lisbon Treaty

Created the permanent European Council President and the strengthened High Representative with the EEAS, made the Charter of Fundamental Rights binding, to reform and streamline the institutional framework
Amended the Maastricht Treaty (TEU) and the Treaty of Rome (TFEU) rather than replacing them with a single constitution