eu4journalists

Elections 2009

4. European Parliament

Since 1979, successive European treaties have increased the powers of the European Parliament. It now carries equal weight with the Council (representing the member states’ governments) in more than 40 areas of legislation: most notably, when it comes to drafting the EU budget and laws designed to facilitate the movement of persons, goods, services and capital within the EU or to protect the environment, and consumers. It also has the power to approve and dismiss the European Commission.

Internationally, the Parliament participates in EU’s external policies. Any international treaty the EU signs up to as well as enlargement of the union has to be approved by the Parliament. It regularly debates human rights issues and sends observers around the world to check that elections are conducted freely and fairly.

The Lisbon Treaty, if ratified, will further increase the powers and the influence of the EP in the European Union’s law-making.

Please see here, how the European Parliament is organized and what are its powers and procedures.