How does the EU work?
The EU is a unique grouping of nations, countries and their citizens. Every member country is different, with shared and states own laws. People, who are concerned about law can appeal to the Court Justice of the European Union. There is one judge per Member State.
The Council of the European Union
Discusses policy and also initiates regulations and directives
The presidency changes every 6 months, all members take turns on equal terms
The fundamental decisions on European policy
European Parliament
Represents the citizens of the EU countries and is elected by them every 5 years
They cannot take decisions about laws for the EU by itself, it usually has to approve a resolution of the Council of the European Union for this to take effect
They have to vote to endorse the European Commission and can reject it
Approves the budget of the European Union
The European Commission
One member per country
Represents the common interests of the European Union
Each member is responsible for a specific area and stays in position for 5 years
The Council and the Parliament can only decide things on the basis of a proposal from the Commission
The European Central Bank
Bank for the euro countries
Countries that have introduced the euro are representatives