EU law

Institutions of the EU: the council

The main law making body of the union. In most cases, they vote by qualified majority. Makes EU legislation often jointly with European parliament and the commission. As a rule, they only act on proposals from the commission. Broad matters of policy discussed twice per year by government figureheads.

Institutions of the EU: the commission

28 commissioners who are supposed to act independently of their nation of origin. Each member state has one commissioner. They put forward proposals for new laws to be adopted by the parliament and the council. As ‘guardian of the treaties’ they ensure that treaty provisions and measures adopted by the union are properly implemented. It is responsible for the administration of the union. It has executive powers to implement the union’s budget and supervise how money is spent.

Institutions of the EU: the European parliament

Members are elected by the electorate of the member states every 5 years. The members form groups based on political affiliation (a few members are without groups). Together with the council, it can make law (not in all areas). It can approve, reject or amend legislative proposals by the commission. It decides on international agreements. It decides whether to admit new member states.

The European court of justice

Their function is to ensure the law is applied uniformly to all member states. 1 judge from each member state, plus 11 advocates general. They hear cases to decide whether member states have failed to fulfil their obligations under the treaties. The advocate general appointed to the case will present findings on the law after the parties have made their submissions.