The European Commission is one of the seven institutions of the European Union (EU). It is the executive branch of the EU and is responsible for proposing new legislation, implementing the decisions of the EU, managing the EU budget, and representing the EU in international negotiations. The Commission is composed of one Commissioner from each of the 27 EU member states, who are appointed by their respective governments and serve a five-year term. The main functions of the European Commission include:
Legislative function: The Commission has the power to propose new legislation to the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union. It also has the power to amend or withdraw proposals that have already been made.
Implementing function: The Commission is responsible for implementing the decisions of the EU, including the adoption and enforcement of EU legislation, the management of EU programs and policies, and the negotiation of international agreements on behalf of the EU.
Supervisory function: The Commission has the power to monitor the implementation of EU legislation by the member states and to take legal action against member states that fail to comply with EU law. It also has the power to investigate anti-competitive behaviour and to enforce EU competition law.
Budgetary function: The Commission is responsible for managing the EU budget and ensuring that EU funds are spent in accordance with EU priorities and objectives.
The European Commission plays a crucial role in the EU decision-making process and is responsible for proposing and implementing the policies and legislation of the EU. The Commission is an important actor in shaping the EU's priorities and objectives, and its decisions have a significant impact on the lives of EU citizens.
You can learn more about this topic and relevant case law with our EU Law notes.
