European Parliament

The European Parliament is the parliamentary body of the European Union (EU), directly elected by EU citizens once every five years. Together with the Council of Ministers, it comprises the legislative branch of the institutions of the Union. It meets in two locations: Strasbourg and Brussels.

Related Topics:
Parliamentary - European Union - Council of Ministers - Strasbourg - Brussels

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The European Parliament cannot initiate legislation, but it can amend or veto it in many policy areas. In certain other policy areas, it has the right only to be consulted. Parliament also supervises the European Commission, must approve all appointments to it, and can dismiss it with a vote of censure. It also has the right to control the EU budget.

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Other organisations of European countries, such as the OSCE, the Council of Europe, and the Western European Union have parliamentary assemblies as well, but the members of these assemblies are appointed by national parliaments. The European Parliament is unique in that it is directly elected by the people and has legislative authority.

Related Topics:
OSCE - Council of Europe - Western European Union - Appoint - Directly elected by the people - Legislative authority

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