How the European Parliament works

Summary

The European Parliament is the only EU institution elected directly by citizens, with over 700 Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) representing nearly 450 million Europeans. These MEPs engage in critical discussions to shape and enact laws that impact everyday life, advocating for freedom, equality, and the rule of law within the EU and beyond. They hold the European Commission accountable, oversee the EU budget, and ensure that EU institutions operate effectively. The Parliament serves as a vital link between the EU's decisions and the people it represents, promoting democracy and human rights worldwide.

Takeaways

• 😀 The European Parliament is the only EU body directly elected by the people.
• 😀 Every five years, voters choose over 700 Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) to represent nearly 450 million Europeans.
• 😀 MEPs debate, shape, and pass laws on issues that are central to daily life in the EU.
• 😀 The Parliament defends freedom, equality, and the rule of law throughout the EU.
• 😀 It promotes democracy and human rights on a global scale.
• 😀 The Parliament elects the President of the European Commission.
• 😀 MEPs ensure that EU institutions are functioning effectively.
• 😀 They decide how the EU's budget is spent and sign off on budgetary matters.
• 😀 The European Parliament acts as a vital link between citizens and key decisions affecting their lives.
• 😀 MEPs represent the interests and concerns of the European populace in legislative processes.

Q & A

What is the European Parliament?

The European Parliament is the only EU body directly elected by the people, representing nearly 450 million Europeans.

How often do citizens elect Members of the European Parliament (MEPs)?

Citizens elect MEPs every five years.

How many MEPs are there in the European Parliament?

There are over 700 MEPs in the European Parliament.

What role do MEPs play in the European Parliament?

MEPs work on behalf of citizens by debating, shaping, and passing laws on important issues affecting daily life.

What fundamental values does the European Parliament defend?

The European Parliament defends freedom, equality, and the rule of law across the EU.

How does the European Parliament contribute to global issues?

The Parliament promotes democracy and human rights around the world.

What is the relationship between the European Parliament and the European Commission?

The European Parliament elects the president of the European Commission and ensures that EU institutions operate effectively.

What financial responsibilities does the European Parliament have?

MEPs decide how the EU's money is spent and sign off on the EU budget.

Why is the European Parliament significant for EU citizens?

The European Parliament serves as a crucial link between EU institutions and citizens, influencing decisions that affect their lives.

What issues do MEPs focus on during their work?

MEPs focus on a wide range of issues central to the daily lives of Europeans, including laws that impact various sectors and policies.