Why is the European Parliament in Brussels?
The main rationale for Brussels being chosen as “capital the European Union” was its halfway location between France and Germany, the two countries whose rivalry led to the two World Wars and whose reconciliation paved the way for European integration.
What interests does the European Parliament represent?
The Parliament acts as a co-legislator, sharing with the Council the power to adopt and amend legislative proposals and to decide on the EU budget. It also supervises the work of the Commission and other EU bodies and cooperates with national parliaments of EU countries to get their input.
Why did Belgium join the EU?
After the Second World War, Belgium wanted to form an economic union with the Netherlands and Luxembourg. In a way, the Benelux project was the testing ground for European integration, though it was soon overtaken by it.
What does the European Parliament actually do?
The European Parliament (EP) is one of two legislative bodies of the European Union and one of its seven institutions. Together with the Council of the European Union (known as the Council and informally as the Council of Ministers), it adopts European legislation, following a proposal of the European Commission.
Whats the purpose of the European Parliament?
The European Parliament has 3 roles: It debates legislation. It can pass or reject laws, and it can also make amendments (but not in all cases). Laws must also be passed by the Council of the EU in order to become law.
How many interest groups are represented in Brussels?
The latest information shows that there are some 2,600 interest groups working in Brussels.
Is the European Parliament in Brussels or Strasbourg?
The Parliament is headquartered in Strasbourg, France, and has its administrative offices in Luxembourg City. Plenary sessions take place in Strasbourg as well as in Brussels, Belgium, while the Parliament’s committee meetings are held primarily in Brussels.
Who makes up the European Parliament?
The European Parliament is made up of 705 Members elected in the 27 Member States of the enlarged European Union. Since 1979 MEPs have been elected by direct universal suffrage for a five-year period.
How does Belgium benefit from the EU?
Intra-EU trade accounts for 65% of Belgium’s exports (Germany 17%, France 14% and the Netherlands 12%), while outside the EU 8% go to the United Kingdom and 7% to the United States.
What is the difference between European Union and European Parliament?
There are three political institutions which hold the executive and legislative power of the Union. The Council of the European Union represents governments, the Parliament represents citizens and the Commission represents the European interest.
Does lobbying exist in Europe?
Today lobbying in the European Union is an integral and important part of decision-making in the EU. From year to year lobbying regulation in the EU is constantly improving and the number of lobbyists is increasing.
Is Brussels the capital of Europe?
As the seat of the EU, Brussels is known as the “capital of Europe,” and its significance as a centre of international governance and business makes Brussels a true global city—a status shared with such metropolises as New York, London, Paris, and Tokyo.
Where is the EU Parliament based?
The European Parliament is the only directly elected body within the EU. The European Parliament is based in Brussels, Luxemburg and Strasbourg.
What are Europe Direct Centres?
EUROPE DIRECT centres help bring the European Union closer to people on the ground and help facilitate their participation in debates on the future of the EU. The centres answer questions about EU policies, programmes and priorities.