The European Union (EU) is a unique political system that is composed of 27 member states and several other institutions. It has its own set of laws and regulations, which apply to all member states, and it has its own democratic institutions that are responsible for making and enforcing those laws. The EU's political system is complex and multi-layered, with several different levels of governance and decision-making.
The EU's primary decision-making body is the European Council, which is made up of the heads of state or government of all member states, as well as the President of the European Commission. The European Council sets the overall political direction and priorities of the EU and provides a forum for member states to come together and discuss important issues.
The European Commission is the EU's executive body and is responsible for proposing legislation and implementing decisions made by the European Council and the European Parliament. The European Commission is made up of one commissioner from each member state and is led by a President, who is appointed by the European Council.
The European Parliament is the EU's only directly-elected institution and is responsible for representing the citizens of the EU. The European Parliament has the power to approve or reject legislation proposed by the European Commission and can also initiate legislation.
The Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) is the EU's highest court and is responsible for interpreting and enforcing EU law. The CJEU also has the power to rule on the validity of EU legislation and to hear cases brought by individuals, companies, and member states against the EU or other member states.
The EU's political system also includes a number of other institutions, such as the European Central Bank, which is responsible for monetary policy, and the European Court of Auditors, which is responsible for auditing the EU's finances.
Comentarios