What powers does the European Commission have?

The Commission is the EU institution that has the monopoly on legislative initiative and important executive powers in policies such as competition and external trade. It is the principal executive body of the European Union and is formed by a College of members composed of one Commissioner per Member State.

What are the responsibilities of the European Parliament?

The European Parliament has 3 roles: It debates legislation. It can pass or reject laws, and it can also make amendments (but not in all cases). Laws must also be passed by the Council of the EU in order to become law.

What are some of the functions and roles of the European Commission?

The Commission helps to shape the EU’s overall strategy, proposes new EU laws and policies, monitors their implementation and manages the EU budget. It also plays a significant role in supporting international development and delivering aid.

What type of majority is necessary for a Commission decision?

When the Council votes on a proposal by the Commission or the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, a qualified majority is reached if two conditions are met: 55% of member states vote in favour – in practice this means 15 out of 27.

What is the legal base for the ordinary legislative procedure?

The ordinary legislative procedure (OLP) gives the same weight to the European Parliament (EP) and the Council on 85 policy areas covering the majority of the EU’s areas of competence (for example, economic governance, immigration, energy, transport, the environment and consumer protection).

How long does the ordinary legislative procedure take?

The ordinary legislative procedure is often a complicated and time-consuming process – lasting around two years from the time a proposal is issued to when it is agreed.

What three roles does the European Parliament have?

What does the Parliament do?

• Passing EU laws, together with the Council of the EU, based on European Commission proposals.
• Deciding on international agreements.
• Deciding on enlargements.
• Reviewing the Commission’s work programme and asking it to propose legislation.

What is the European Commission made up of?

The commission is composed of a College of “Commissioners” of 27 members, including the President and vice-presidents. Even though each member is nominated on the basis of the suggestions made by the national governments, one per state, they do not represent their state in the commission.