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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