European Parliament, Council of the European Union, European Commission
- European Parliament – represents the citizens of EU states and is directly elected by them. It participates in the adoption of EU legislation, the EU budget and oversees the activities of the EU;
- Council of the European Union - represents individual EU member states. The Council adopts EU legislation, coordinates the common economic policy of the states, concludes international EU treaties, and, together with the European Parliament, approves the budget, shapes foreign and security policy.
- European Commission - is the EU executive body that initiates legislative proposals, manages the implementation of EU policy, budget execution, etc. It represents the common collective interests of the EU in the international arena.
This “institutional triangle” creates policy and legislation for the entire EU. The Commission proposes new legislation, and the Parliament and Council adopt it. The Commission, Parliament, and Council act in accordance with the EU's founding treaties, which were signed by the heads of state and government of all EU countries and ratified by their parliaments.
Other EU institutions:
The Court of Justice of the European Communities ensures compliance with EU legislation.
www.curia.europa.eu
The Accounting Chamber (Court of Auditors) monitors the targeted use of budget funds.
www.eca.europa.eu
The European Economic and Social Committee represents civil society, employers and employees.
www.eesc.europa.eu
The Committee of Regions represents regional and local authorities.
www.cor.europa.eu
The European Central Bank monitors the stability of the euro and implements EU monetary policy.
www.ecb.int
The European Investment Bank finances EU investment projects.
www.eib.europa.eu
The European Ombudsman protects EU citizens and organizations from administration abuse.
www.ombudsman.europa.eu