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Overview of EU Legislative Process

Mar 17, 2025

Understanding EU Legislation

Introduction

  • The European Union (EU) can create laws applicable to all member states simultaneously.
  • Key topics covered:
    • Why does the EU pass legislation?
    • Who is involved in the process?
    • How does the legislative process work?

Purpose of EU Legislation

  • Ensures accountability to the same standards across member states.
  • Creates a level playing field for businesses in different countries.
  • Ensures similar rights and freedoms for European citizens.
  • Addresses larger scale issues like Trade, Environmental Protection, and Human Rights effectively.

Key Institutions Involved in Legislation

  1. European Commission

    • Acts as the executive branch of the EU.
    • Composed of 27 Commissioners and one President.
    • Proposes and implements EU laws and policies.
  2. European Parliament

    • Made up of citizen-elected members from each member state.
    • Has the authority to approve, amend, or reject laws proposed by the Commission.
  3. Council of the EU

    • Composed of Ministers from each member state representing national governments.
    • Can also approve, amend, or reject proposed legislation.

Legislative Process Steps

  1. Proposal

    • The process begins with the European Commission proposing a new law.
    • The 'Right of Initiative' to propose new laws is exclusive to the European Commission.
    • Other institutions and citizens can request proposals under specific circumstances, but the Commission is not required to comply.
  2. First Reading in Parliament

    • The proposed legislation is sent to the European Parliament for review.
    • The Parliament's 20 committees discuss, make changes, and recommend adjustments.
    • Parliament votes to accept or reject the legislation.
    • If rejected, it returns to the Commission with suggestions; if accepted, it goes to the Council.
  3. Review by Council of the EU

    • The Council reviews the legislation, often making amendments.
    • The Council votes on the legislation.
    • If approved, it returns to the European Parliament for a second reading.
  4. Second Reading in Parliament

    • Parliament can accept/reject the Council's changes or propose new amendments.
    • If disagreements persist, a conciliation committee is formed to negotiate.
  5. Final Approval

    • If a compromise is reached, the proposal is sent back to the Parliament and Council for final approval.
    • If both institutions approve, it becomes law, binding on all EU member states.

Conclusion

  • Legislation in the EU requires cooperation and consideration of national interests and European-wide concerns.
  • The legislative process can be challenging due to diverse interests among the 27 member states.

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