Which does the European Council do in the government of the European Union
The European Council plays a crucial role in the political system of the European Union (EU). It is one of the main institutions alongside the European Commission, the European Parliament, and the Council of the European Union. The European Council consists of the heads of state or government of each EU member state, along with the President of the European Council and the President of the European Commission.
The primary responsibility of the European Council is to set the overall political direction and priorities of the EU. It provides a platform for EU leaders to discuss and coordinate their positions on various significant issues and make important decisions that affect the future of the EU. Some of the key tasks of the European Council include:
1. Setting the EU's political agenda: The European Council defines the EU's long-term goals and strategic priorities, such as economic development, environmental protection, and foreign policy objectives.
2. Guiding the EU's legislative process: The European Council gives general political guidelines and objectives to the Council of the European Union, which is responsible for proposing and adopting EU legislation.
3. Negotiating and signing international agreements: The European Council authorizes and oversees the negotiation of international agreements on behalf of the EU. It is responsible for ensuring the coherence and consistency of the EU's external actions.
4. Addressing crises and conflicts: The European Council deals with pressing issues, such as economic crises, migration challenges, security threats, and conflicts within or outside the EU. It provides strategic guidance and coordinates the response of EU member states.
5. Appointing key EU positions: The European Council appoints high-level EU positions, such as the President of the European Commission and the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.
To find comprehensive and up-to-date information on the European Council's activities, you can visit the official website of the European Commission or browse through reliable news sources that cover EU affairs. Additionally, you can refer to relevant EU treaties and legal documents, such as the Treaty on European Union and the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, to gain a deeper understanding of the European Council's role in the EU government.