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A lay persons guide to Europe
The European Union (EU) consists of 15 nations; Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Holland, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Portugal, Spain, Sweden and the UK.
The powers of the union's institutions are strictly limited to those powers given by Treaties which implement agreements made by the 15 members. The EU does not have a general power to legislate on any issue it wishes to. Agriculture, the environment and trade are the main areas over which the EU has authority.
The most powerful institution in the EU is the Council of Ministers. This is a body in which the 15 representatives of the national Governments meet to make policy and agree laws.
The decisions of the Council are carried out by the Commission, as sort of European Civil Service. The Commission also has a role in drafting EU legislation.
The European Parliament is the only body directly elected by the people of Europe. The 626 MEPs have power over the EU budget (but excluding the half spent on farming !), can reject the Commissioners appointed by the national Governments and can amend, or in some cases veto, draft legislation.
The European Court of Justice interprets EU law when governments or individuals disagree on the meaning of legislation. It should not be confused with the European Court of Human Rights which is NOT part of the EU. (See Can I go to the European Court?).
