The European Council is a critical institution within the European Union (EU), tasked principally with defining the general political direction and priorities of the Union. It is composed of the heads of state or government of the member states, along with the President of the European Council and the President of the European Commission.
Structure and Function
Composition
The European Council consists of:
- The heads of state or government of the EU member states.
- The President of the European Council.
- The President of the European Commission.
- The High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy (when foreign affairs issues are discussed).
Meetings
The European Council meets at least four times a year. Its meetings are often referred to as summits. Extraordinary meetings can be convened by the Council’s president if necessary.
Role in the EU
Political Direction and Priorities
The European Council does not legislate; it addresses complex and sensitive issues that cannot be resolved at lower institutional levels. It sets the EU’s overall policy agenda and provides the impetus for the EU’s development. The decisions it takes can affect EU policy broadly, including economic policy, foreign policy, and treaty changes.
Decision-Making
While the European Council itself does not pass laws, its strategic guidelines are essential for the EU. It operates mainly by consensus, but decisions on certain issues may require a mix of unanimity and qualified majority.
Historical Context
Establishment and Evolution
The European Council was established informally in 1974 and became an official EU institution as part of the Maastricht Treaty in 1993. The Lisbon Treaty of 2009 further solidified its role and provided it with a permanent President.
Applicability and Importance
Influence on EU Policy
By defining the Union’s overarching political direction, the European Council has a profound influence on the EU’s development. Its strategic decisions affect various aspects of EU policy, including economic, security, immigration, and environmental strategies.
Related Terms
- European Commission: The executive branch of the EU, responsible for proposing legislation, implementing decisions, upholding EU treaties, and managing day-to-day affairs.
- Council of the European Union: Also known as the Council of Ministers, it consists of government ministers from each member state and shares the legislative and budgetary authority with the European Parliament.
- European Parliament: The directly elected parliamentary institution of the EU which, alongside the Council of the European Union, forms the legislative branch of the EU.
FAQs
How does the European Council differ from the Council of the European Union?
The European Council defines the general political direction and priorities of the EU, while the Council of the European Union, or Council of Ministers, shares legislative and budgetary authority with the European Parliament.
Who attends European Council meetings?
The meetings are attended by the heads of state or government of the member states, the President of the European Council, the President of the European Commission, and occasionally the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.
Does the European Council pass laws?
No, the European Council does not legislate. It sets broad policy directions and priorities.
References
- European Union. “European Council.” europa.eu.
- Dinan, Desmond. “Europe Recast: A History of European Union.” Palgrave Macmillan, 2004.
- Nugent, Neill. “The Government and Politics of the European Union.” Palgrave Macmillan, 2017.
Conclusion
The European Council plays a pivotal role in the political cohesion and strategic advancement of the European Union. By bringing together the top political leaders from each member state, it provides the essential direction needed for the Union to address complex international and domestic challenges. Its decisions shape the trajectory of EU policies, demonstrating its indispensable presence within the European framework.
This entry comprehensively covers the European Council, providing essential information and clarity for readers interested in understanding its role and significance within the EU structure.
