AP* Comparative Government and Politics: An essential coursebook. 7th Edition by Ethel Wood / Chapter 3 /

The Commission

The European Commission is the executive branch of the European Union (EU) responsible for proposing legislation, implementing decisions, upholding the EU treaties, and managing the day-to-day operations of the EU. It consists of one Commissioner from each member state.

Common Market

a type of trade bloc that allows for the free movement of goods, services, capital, and labor among member countries. It aims to eliminate trade barriers and promote economic integration.

The Council of Ministers

Also known as the Council of the European Union, this institution represents the governments of the EU member states. It is responsible for passing laws, coordinating policies, and making decisions on various issues, including foreign affairs and economic policy.

Crisis Management

This refers to the processes and strategies employed to respond to and manage emergencies or crises, particularly in the context of international relations and security. In the EU context, it often involves coordinated responses to humanitarian, political, or military crises.

Democratic Deficit

This term describes a situation where democratic institutions or processes are perceived to be lacking in accountability or representation. In the context of the EU, it refers to concerns that EU institutions do not adequately represent the interests of European citizens.

EC (European Community)

was an organization that aimed to foster economic integration among its member states. It was one of the three pillars of the European Union and focused on economic, social, and environmental policies.

Economic Liberalism

This is an economic philosophy that advocates for free markets, minimal government intervention in the economy, and the belief that economic freedom leads to prosperity and efficiency.

Economic Structural Adjustment

This refers to policy measures implemented by countries, often in response to economic crises, aimed at restructuring their economies to promote growth and stability. These measures may include fiscal austerity, deregulation, and privatization.

EEC (European Economic Community)

Established by the Treaty of Rome in 1957, the EEC aimed to create a common market among its member states, facilitating free trade and economic cooperation. It eventually evolved into the European Union.

Enlargement Fatigue

This term describes the weariness or reluctance among EU member states and citizens regarding the expansion of the EU to include new member countries. It often arises from concerns about economic stability, political integration, and cultural differences.

European Central Bank (ECB)

The ECB is the central bank for the euro and is responsible for monetary policy within the Eurozone. Its primary objective is to maintain price stability and manage the euro's value.

European Constitution

This was a proposed treaty intended to consolidate and simplify the existing treaties governing the EU. It aimed to create a more coherent legal framework for the EU but was ultimately rejected in referenda in France and the Netherlands.

European Council

The European Council is the institution that defines the EU's overall political direction and priorities. It consists of the heads of state or government of the member states and the President of the European Council.

European Court of Justice (ECJ)

The ECJ is the highest court in the EU, responsible for interpreting EU law and ensuring its uniform application across member states. It adjudicates disputes between EU institutions, member states, and individuals.

European Parliament (EP)

The EP is the directly elected legislative body of the EU, representing the interests of EU citizens. It shares legislative power with the Council of Ministers and has a role in approving the EU budget and scrutinizing other EU institutions.

European Monetary Union (EMU)

The EMU is a group of EU member states that have adopted the euro as their common currency and coordinate their monetary policies. It aims to ensure economic stability and integration among member states.

EU (European Union)

The EU is a political and economic union of member states located primarily in Europe. It was established to promote economic cooperation, political stability, and social progress among its members.

Farm Subsidies

These are financial supports provided by governments to farmers to stabilize their income, manage the supply of agricultural commodities, and influence the cost and supply of food.

Free Movement

This refers to the right of individuals to move freely within the EU member states for work, study, or residence without facing restrictions or barriers.

Integration

In the context of the EU, integration refers to the process of unifying member states through shared policies, laws, and institutions, promoting cooperation in various areas such as economics, politics, and social issues.

Lisbon Treaty

The Lisbon Treaty, which came into force in December 2009, aimed to enhance the efficiency and democratic legitimacy of the EU. It amended previous treaties and introduced changes to the EU's institutional structure and decision-making processes.

Maastricht Treaty

Signed in 1991, the Maastricht Treaty established the European Union and laid the groundwork for the Economic and Monetary Union, including the introduction of the euro. It also introduced the concept of European citizenship.

MEPs (Members of the European Parliament)

MEPs are elected representatives in the European Parliament, representing the interests of EU citizens. They participate in the legislative process and contribute to shaping EU policies.

Mixed Economy

A mixed economy is an economic system that combines elements of both capitalism and socialism, featuring a blend of private and public ownership of resources and varying degrees of government intervention in the economy.

Monetary Policy

This refers to the actions taken by a central bank to manage the money supply and interest rates in an economy, aiming to achieve macroeconomic objectives such as controlling inflation, consumption, growth, and liquidity.

Requirements for EU Membership

These are the criteria that candidate countries must meet to join the EU, including having a stable and functioning democratic regime, a market-oriented economy, and the ability to adopt and implement EU laws and regulations.

Restructuring

This term refers to the process of reorganizing a company's or country's operations, often to improve efficiency, adapt to market changes, or respond to economic challenges.

Social Market Economy

This is an economic system that seeks to balance free market capitalism with social policies that promote social justice and welfare. It emphasizes the importance of both economic efficiency and social equity.

Sovereign Debt Crisis

This refers to a situation where a country is unable to meet its debt obligations, leading to a loss of investor confidence and potential default. It often results in economic instability and requires intervention from international financial institutions.

Supranational Organization

A supranational organization is an entity formed by multiple countries that transcends national boundaries and has authority or influence over its member states in certain areas, such as trade, security, or environmental policy.

Three Pillars

This term refers to the three main areas of authority established by the Maastricht Treaty for the EU: 1) Economic and Monetary Union, 2) Justice and Home Affairs, and 3) Common Foreign and Security Policy.

Treaty of Amsterdam

Signed in 1997, the Treaty of Amsterdam amended the Maastricht Treaty and aimed to enhance the EU's effectiveness and democratic legitimacy. It introduced changes to the EU's institutional framework and policies, particularly in areas such as justice and home affairs.