The European Parliament

Definition

The directly elected parliamentary institution of the EU which together with Council forms one half of its bicameral legislative branch. It represents citizens' interests at an EU level.

Analogy

Imagine if your school's student council had representatives from every class, and they all worked together to make decisions that affect the entire school. That's what the European Parliament is like for EU citizens.

Related terms

European Commission: The executive branch of the European Union responsible for proposing legislation, implementing decisions, upholding EU treaties and managing day-to-day business.

Council of the European Union: Also known as the Council of Ministers, it represents governments of EU member states. It is where national ministers from each EU country meet to adopt laws and coordinate policies.

Treaty of Lisbon: An international agreement which amends two older treaties forming the constitutional basis of the European Union. It strengthens the legislative power of the European Parliament.