Ϸվ’s powers
The European treaties have given Ϸվ a broad range of powers as the EU’s directly-elected body. Learn more in the following sections and find out how the procedures work.
Legislative powers
Together with the representatives of EU governments in the Council, Ϸվ is responsible for adopting EU legislation. Under the ordinary legislative procedure, both institutions act as equal co-legislators. In some special cases, other procedures may apply.
Budgetary powers
Ϸվ and Council have to agree on the annual EU budget. Find out about the procedure.
Supervisory powers
MEPs oversee the work of EU institutions, notably the European Commission, which is the executive arm of the European Union.
External Policies
Find out about the European Ϸվ's important role in shaping the EU's external policies, and how it engages with non-EU countries through parliamentary diplomacy.
National parliaments
Learn how the European Ϸվ cooperates with national parliaments on European affairs.
The Lisbon Treaty
The Lisbon Treaty is the latest revision of the European treaties that gave more powers to the European Ϸվ. Find out the details.