The European Commission helps in the governance and functioning of the European Union (EU). Acting as its executive arm, the Commission is at the heart of the EU’s legislative and administrative machinery.

Established in 1958, alongside the formation of the European Economic Community (EEC), it has evolved into a vital institution headquartered in Brussels, Belgium.

The Commission’s primary responsibilities include proposing legislation, implementing decisions, and managing the day-to-day operations of the EU. Let’s explore its key functions in detail.

Functions of the European Commission

1. Legislative Proposals

The European Commission holds the exclusive right to initiate legislation within the EU framework.

It drafts legislative proposals aimed at addressing issues of common interest, such as climate change, digital transformation, trade, and consumer protection. These proposals are meticulously prepared after:

• Stakeholder Consultations: Gathering input from businesses, civil society, and other EU institutions.
• Impact Assessments: Evaluating the economic, social, and environmental effects of proposed legislation.

Once drafted, the proposals are submitted to the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union for deliberation and approval.

This process ensures that laws are democratically debated and reflect the interests of the member states and their citizens.

2. Policy Implementation

Beyond drafting legislation, the Commission ensures that EU laws and policies are effectively implemented across all member states. This involves:

• Monitoring Compliance: Verifying that countries integrate EU directives into their national legal systems.
• Coordinating Actions: Overseeing programs like the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) or the Digital Europe Programme to ensure uniform application.
• Support Mechanisms: Offering technical and financial assistance to member states to facilitate policy implementation.

By acting as the enforcer of EU law, the Commission ensures consistency and uniformity, fostering a level playing field across the bloc.

3. Budget Management

The European Commission is responsible for drafting and managing the EU’s multiannual budget. This involves:

• Resource Allocation: Directing funds to priority areas such as infrastructure development, innovation, climate action, and education through programs like Horizon Europe and the European Green Deal.
• Monitoring Spending: Ensuring funds are used efficiently and transparently, with strict audits to minimize fraud and misuse.
• Revenue Collection: Collecting EU revenues from sources like customs duties, a share of national VAT, and contributions from member states.

Through its budgetary oversight, the Commission ensures that financial resources align with the EU’s strategic objectives, benefiting both member states and their citizens.

4. Trade Negotiations

The European Commission serves as the EU’s representative in trade negotiations with non-EU countries and international organizations such as the World Trade Organization (WTO). Key roles in this domain include:

• Negotiating Trade Deals: Securing agreements that promote free trade, reduce tariffs, and enhance market access for European goods and services.
• Protecting Interests: Safeguarding sensitive sectors, like agriculture, while pushing for fair competition and sustainability.
• Mediating Disputes: Acting as a negotiator in trade conflicts involving EU member states or external partners.

The Commission’s expertise in trade helps the EU maintain its position as a global economic powerhouse and ensures that European businesses have access to lucrative markets worldwide.

5. Monitoring Compliance

One of the Commission’s most critical functions is acting as the guardian of EU treaties. This involves:

• Legal Oversight: Ensuring that all member states abide by the agreements outlined in treaties like the Treaty of Lisbon.
• Infringement Proceedings: Initiating legal action against member states that fail to comply with EU laws or directives, potentially escalating cases to the European Court of Justice (ECJ).
• Regulatory Enforcement: Overseeing the application of rules in areas such as competition policy, state aid, and consumer rights.

This role reinforces the integrity of the EU’s legal framework and ensures that all member states adhere to their commitments.

Governance Structure

The European Commission is composed of:

• The College of Commissioners: One commissioner from each EU member state, including the President of the Commission, who oversees specific portfolios.
• Directorates-General: Departments handling specific policy areas such as competition, trade, and the environment.

Role in EU Integration

The European Commission is central to fostering unity and cohesion within the EU. By ensuring the consistent application of laws and policies, it helps maintain a level playing field across member states.

ECB vs. European Commission

Challenges and Criticism

1. ECB

• • Balancing inflation control with economic growth.
  • Handling divergent economic conditions across eurozone members.
  • Criticism for slow policy responses during crises.
    

2. European Commission

• • • Ensuring compliance among diverse member states.
    • Managing disputes over sovereignty versus EU-wide regulations.
    • Criticism of bureaucracy and perceived democratic deficits.

Conclusion

The European Central Bank and the European Commission are indispensable to the EU’s functioning.

While the ECB focuses on monetary stability within the eurozone, the European Commission drives broader legislative and policy agendas across all member states.

Together, they shape the economic and political trajectory of Europe, balancing diverse priorities and challenges in a complex and interconnected world.