European Parliament

Definition

The European Parliament is the directly elected legislative body of the European Union (EU), responsible for representing the interests of EU citizens and making decisions on various policy areas. It plays a crucial role in shaping EU legislation, overseeing the executive branch, and collaborating with other EU institutions like the European Commission and the Council of the European Union.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The European Parliament is composed of Members of Parliament (MEPs) who are elected every five years by citizens of the EU member states.
2. It has co-decision power with the Council of the European Union, meaning it shares equal authority in adopting most EU legislation.
3. The Parliament can propose amendments to legislation, approve or reject laws, and influence the EU budget.
4. It has the power to oversee and hold accountable other EU institutions, such as the European Commission, through various mechanisms including hearings and reports.
5. The European Parliament promotes democratic values, human rights, and environmental sustainability within its legislative agenda.

Review Questions

• How does the European Parliament influence EU legislation and policy-making?
  • The European Parliament influences EU legislation and policy-making through its power to propose amendments, approve or reject laws, and collaborate with other institutions like the Council of the European Union. By having co-decision authority with the Council, it ensures that MEPs represent the interests of citizens when laws are made. This democratic process allows for public input into policy decisions that affect all member states.
• Discuss the relationship between the European Parliament and other key EU institutions like the European Commission and the Council of the European Union.
  • The relationship between the European Parliament, the European Commission, and the Council of the European Union is collaborative yet distinct. The European Commission proposes legislation, while both the Parliament and Council must approve it for it to become law. The Parliament also holds the Commission accountable through oversight mechanisms. This dynamic ensures a balance between democratic representation in Parliament and executive actions by the Commission.
• Evaluate the role of the European Parliament in promoting democratic values across EU member states and its impact on global governance.
  • The European Parliament plays a vital role in promoting democratic values across EU member states by ensuring that citizens' voices are represented in legislative processes. Its emphasis on human rights and environmental sustainability influences not just internal policies but also sets precedents for global governance. As an advocate for democracy, it encourages other nations to adopt similar standards, thereby fostering a more unified approach to international relations and cooperation.

Related terms

European Commission: The European Commission is the executive branch of the EU, responsible for proposing legislation, implementing decisions, and upholding EU treaties.

Council of the European Union: The Council of the European Union is an institution that represents the governments of EU member states, working alongside the European Parliament to adopt legislation and coordinate policies.

EU Treaty: An EU Treaty is a formal agreement that serves as the foundation for the EU's legal framework, defining its objectives, principles, and institutional structure.