The Power of the EU: Understanding the Key Players

The President of the European Council

The President of the European Council is the most powerful figure in the EU. They are responsible for chairing meetings of the European Council, which is made up of the heads of state or government of each EU member state. The President also represents the EU on the international stage and is responsible for setting the EU's political agenda.

The President of the European Commission

The President of the European Commission is the head of the EU's executive branch. They are responsible for proposing legislation to the European Parliament and for implementing the EU's budget. The President is also responsible for representing the EU in international negotiations.

The High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy

The High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy is responsible for the EU's foreign policy. They are also responsible for coordinating the EU's defense and security policies.

The European Parliament

The European Parliament is the EU's legislative branch. It is made up of 751 members, who are directly elected by the citizens of each EU member state. The Parliament has the power to approve or reject the EU's budget and legislation.

The Council of the European Union

The Council of the European Union is the EU's main decision-making body. It is made up of ministers from each EU member state. The Council has the power to adopt legislation and to approve the EU's budget.