Europäische Parlament - EU-Parlament - einfach erklärt! #Europa (NEUES VIDEO in der Beschreibung)

Summary

This video explains the structure and functions of the European Parliament, the only directly elected institution in the EU. It highlights the election process, where citizens of member states vote every five years, and the role of MEPs, grouped into political factions. The video details the law-making process, the Parliament's involvement in approving international agreements, and its oversight of other EU bodies. Additionally, it emphasizes the Parliament’s significant role in the EU budget and democratic control. The video calls for voter participation in the upcoming EU elections, urging citizens to have a say in Europe's future.

Takeaways

• 😀 The European Parliament is the only directly elected transnational institution in the world, giving it significant international importance.
• 😀 Since 1979, European Parliament members have been elected by citizens of EU member states every five years, representing the union's citizens.
• 😀 The Parliament holds plenary sessions in Strasbourg, with additional committee meetings in Brussels.
• 😀 The Parliament is led by a president, elected by its members for a 2.5-year term, currently held by Antonio Tajani since January 17, 2017.
• 😀 The European Parliament consists of 750 Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) from 28 EU countries, with each country's number of representatives based on its population.
• 😀 Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) form factions based on shared political ideologies, such as the European People's Party (EPP) and the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats (S&D).
• 😀 Elections to the European Parliament are held based on proportional representation, with citizens aged 18 and over eligible to vote (lower voting age in some EU countries like Austria).
• 😀 The European Parliament's role has grown over time, especially after the Maastricht Treaty (1992) and the Lisbon Treaty (2007), granting it more decision-making power.
• 😀 The Parliament now shares legislative power equally with the Council of the European Union, though it remains subordinate in areas like competition policy and foreign policy.
• 😀 In addition to legislation, the European Parliament has other key functions, such as approving the EU budget, monitoring the European Central Bank, and overseeing international agreements and the admission of new states to the EU.

Q & A

What is the European Parliament, and why is it considered important?

The European Parliament is the only directly elected institution within the European Union. It holds significant international influence and represents the citizens of the EU member states. Its importance stems from its legislative powers and its role in shaping EU policies.

How is the European Parliament structured?

The European Parliament consists of 750 elected representatives from 28 EU member states. The number of representatives per country is based on population size, with Germany sending the most representatives (96) and smaller countries like Iceland sending only six.

When and how are members of the European Parliament elected?

Members of the European Parliament are elected every five years by the citizens of EU member states through direct elections. The elections are based on proportional representation, with citizens aged 18 and over eligible to vote.

What is the role of political groups in the European Parliament?

Elected representatives in the European Parliament join political groups based on shared values. These groups, such as the European People's Party (EPP), Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats (S&D), and others, collaborate on legislation and policy discussions.

What is the significance of the Maastricht and Lisbon Treaties for the European Parliament?

The Maastricht Treaty (1992) and the Lisbon Treaty (2007) expanded the European Parliament's powers, particularly in the legislative process. These treaties made the Parliament a co-legislator with the Council of the European Union in most policy areas.

What are the legislative responsibilities of the European Parliament?

The European Parliament shares legislative powers with the Council of the European Union, approving laws and regulations. It works with 20 committees that prepare legislative proposals, which are then debated and voted on in plenary sessions.

Can the European Parliament initiate legislation?

No, the European Parliament cannot directly initiate legislation. However, it can request the European Commission to propose new laws and can influence the legislative process through debates and amendments.

What is the European Parliament's role in overseeing other EU institutions?

The European Parliament has a supervisory role over other EU institutions, ensuring that they operate democratically and transparently. It also monitors the European Central Bank's monetary policy and evaluates the work of other EU bodies.

How does the European Parliament influence the EU budget?

The European Parliament plays a key role in approving the EU budget. It works with the European Council to set the multi-annual financial framework and determines how EU funds are allocated across various sectors.

What is the importance of voting in European Parliament elections?

Voting in European Parliament elections is crucial because the Parliament's legitimacy relies on high voter turnout. By participating, citizens have a say in shaping EU legislation, policies, and the allocation of EU funds.