Bodies and institutions

The European Parliament (Strasbourg) (Source: Federal Government / Reineke)

The policies and legislation applicable in the European Union (EU) are elaborated by the so-called "institutional triangle".

This triangle consists of

• the European Parliament, i.e. the representation of the European citizens which is elected directly by the citizens,
• the Council of the European Union representing the member states, and
• the European Commission which represents and upholds the interests of the EU.

In the decision-making procedure, a proposal will normally be tabled by the Commission and then adopted by the Parliament and the Council.

Supervisory bodies

The European Court of Justice as the body ensuring compliance with European legislation and the European Court of Auditors, responsible for the monitoring of funding, function as supervisory authorities.

Other important institutions

In addition, the following institutions play an important role within the EU:

• the Economic and Social Committee (representation of the civil society, of employees and employers),
• the Committee of the Regions (representation of local governments),
• the European Investment Bank (funds investment projects of the EU, supports small and medium-sized enterprises by means of the European Investment Fund),
• the European Central Bank (responsible for European monetary policy),
• the European Ombudsman (examines complaints brought forward by citizens),
• the European Data Protection Supervisor (protection of personal data).