The Council of the European Union, often referred to as the Council so far has helped in the European Union’s decision-making process. 

Its functions, structure, and interplay with other EU institutions make it one of the most influential entities within the Union. You will find out the major aspects of this body and its influence on EU governance in this article.

The Council of the European Union Presidency

The presidency of the Council rotates among EU member states every six months. 

During this tenure, the presiding country leads meetings, sets agendas, and represents the Council in dealings with other EU institutions, such as the European Parliament and the European Commission.

This rotation ensures inclusivity, allowing each member state to contribute to shaping the EU’s priorities. Currently, the presidency operates in trios, groups of three countries collaborating on a common agenda over an 18-month period.

How the Council Takes Decisions

Decision-making within the Council is a multi-layered process. Most decisions are taken through qualified majority voting (QMV), where each member state’s vote is weighted based on its population size. For a decision to pass under QMV:

• At least 55% of member states (15 out of 27) must approve.
• These states must represent at least 65% of the EU’s total population.

However, for sensitive topics such as taxation, defence, or foreign policy, unanimity is required. This ensures consensus among all member states before critical measures are adopted.

Council Configurations

The Council convened in 10 different configurations based on policy areas, such as:

• Economic and Financial Affairs
• Agriculture and Fisheries
• Justice and Home Affairs

Each configuration brings together ministers from member states responsible for the respective portfolios. For instance, finance ministers discuss economic policies in the Economic and Financial Affairs Council (Ecofin). This adaptability enables the Council to tackle a wide range of issues effectively.

How Is the European Council Elected?

The European Council, distinct from the Council of the European Union, comprises heads of state or government from all EU member states.

 Its President is elected by a qualified majority of the Council’s members for a term of two and a half years, renewable once. This role focuses on ensuring continuity and cohesion in the EU’s strategic planning.

Five Largest Members of the EU in Parliament

The European Parliament represents the EU’s citizens and works closely with the Council. The five largest member states by parliamentary representation are:

1. Germany
2. France
3. Italy
4. Spain
5. Poland

These countries wield significant influence due to their population sizes and economic contributions.

All Members of the Council of the European Union

The Council of the European Union comprises representatives from all 27 EU member states. Each country is represented by a government minister relevant to the topic being discussed. The members, by country, are as follows:

1. Austria

Federal ministers representing Austria’s government.

2. Belgium

Ministers from Belgium’s federal, regional, and community governments.

3. Bulgaria

Ministers from the Bulgarian government.

4. Croatia

Representatives from Croatia’s government.

5. Cyprus

Government ministers from the Republic of Cyprus.

6. Czech Republic

Ministers representing the Czech government.

7. Denmark

Danish government ministers.

8. Estonia

Ministers from the Estonian government.

9. Finland

Representatives from Finland’s government.

10. France

French government ministers.

11. Germany

Ministers representing the German federal government.

12. Greece

Government ministers from Greece.

13. Hungary

Ministers from Hungary’s government.

14. Ireland

Representatives from the Irish government.

15. Italy

Ministers from the Italian government.

16. Latvia

Latvian government ministers.

17. Lithuania

Ministers representing Lithuania’s government.

18. Luxembourg

Representatives from Luxembourg’s government.

19. Malta

Government ministers from Malta.

20. Netherlands

Dutch government representatives.

21. Poland

Polish government ministers.

22. Portugal

Ministers from the Portuguese government.

23. Romania

Representatives from Romania’s government.

24. Slovakia

Ministers from Slovakia’s government.

25. Slovenia

Slovenian government representatives.

26. Spain

Ministers from Spain’s government.

27. Sweden

Swedish government ministers.

Each of these ministers participates in Council meetings based on the policy area being addressed, ensuring expertise and relevance in decision-making.

Headquarters of the European Council

The European Council and the Council of the European Union are headquartered in Brussels, Belgium, at the Europa Building. This iconic structure, with its modern design, symbolizes unity and transparency in EU governance.

The Leader of the EU Parliament

The President of the European Parliament is its leader, responsible for overseeing parliamentary debates, ensuring compliance with rules, and representing the Parliament externally. Currently, Roberta Metsola serves in this role and she is the third woman to hold this position in the Parliament’s history.

EU Council Members

The Council of the European Union comprises ministers from each EU member state, with representation shifting depending on the policy area under discussion. For example, agriculture ministers will attend meetings on agricultural policy, ensuring specialized expertise in when making decisions. 

Founder of the European Union

The European Union was conceptualized by a group of visionary leaders after World War II, including Robert Schuman, Jean Monnet, and Konrad Adenauer. Their efforts culminated in the signing of the Treaty of Rome in 1957, which established the European Economic Community, a precursor to today’s EU.

Who Controls the European Parliament?

Control over the European Parliament lies with its Members of the European Parliament (MEPs), who are directly elected by EU citizens. Political groups within the Parliament, such as the European People’s Party (EPP) or Socialists and Democrats (S&D), play significant roles in steering legislative priorities.

Who Has the Most Power in the EU?

Determining the most powerful entity in the EU is complex, as power is distributed among its institutions:

• The European Council sets the EU’s overall political direction.
• The European Parliament represents citizens’ voices.
• The European Commission enforces laws and manages the budget.

However, the European Council, being composed of national leaders, often holds the final say in critical matters, giving it significant sway in EU affairs.