European Union's Administrative Body Being Examined
The European Commission, a collegial body of 27 members, plays a pivotal role in the governance of the European Union. Each member represents a member state, with the President and the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy being exceptions.
The Commission is the driving force behind the development and application of EU policies, holding the exclusive right of initiative for proposals to maintain, develop, and apply community policies, except for parts of the area of justice and home affairs. This means that the Commission proposes the laws and regulations that shape the EU's future.
The Commission's responsibilities extend beyond policy initiation. It is tasked with ensuring the application of community treaty law and regulations adopted by its organs, acting as the "Guardian of the Treaties." This role is crucial in maintaining the integrity and consistency of EU law.
The Commission can issue binding legal acts in the context of implementing secondary law. These acts, which include regulations, directives, decisions, and recommendations, help to ensure that EU laws are applied uniformly across all member states.
The composition of the Commission is decided through a series of steps. Before the final appointment, the European Council proposes the President, the High Representative, and the other commissioners. The European Parliament then has the power to approve or reject this college as a whole. The President is elected by the European Parliament, with the European Council making a proposal in this regard, taking into account the result of the election to the European Parliament.
The High Representative of the Union for Foreign and Security Policy, a Vice-President of the Commission, is appointed with the consent of the Commission President by the European Council. The other members of the commission are chosen by the Commission President in agreement with the Council on the basis of proposals from the member states.
The term of office for the European Commission remains five years. The current Commission, led by President Ursula von der Leyen since 1 December 2019 (re-elected on 18 July 2024), and its administrative authority, with a total of around 33,000 employees, continue to exist. As of 1 December 2024, the High Representative of the Union for Foreign and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, will also join the Commission as a Vice-President and one of the 27 members.
The President sets the political guidelines for the European Commission, providing direction and shaping the Commission's work. The Commission, under the leadership of the President, works tirelessly to negotiate trade and other agreements with third countries, provided the subject matter falls within its competence, and to manage the EU's foreign and security policy, under the guidance of the High Representative.
In summary, the European Commission is a vital institution within the European Union. Its role in proposing laws, ensuring compliance with EU treaties, and managing the EU's foreign and security policy makes it a key player in shaping the future of the EU.
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