Council of the European Union

Deep within the heart of Brussels, the Council of the European Union stands as a testament to unity and diplomacy. The Council of the European Union isn’t just a building. It’s the beating heart of European decision-making. Here, within the walls of the Europa building, the voices of 27 member states converge. Imagine the weight of discussions held within these walls. The Council of the European Union, often referred to simply as “the Council,” shapes the very fabric of Europe. The Council of the European Union’s history traces back to 1967. It was then known as the Council of the European Communities. It evolved from the merger of the ECSC’s Special Council of Ministers and the Council of the EAEC. It has weathered storms like the “empty chair crisis” of 1965. This crisis, sparked by disagreements between French President Charles de Gaulle and the Commission, highlighted the complexities of the Council’s workings. The Council of the European Union plays a pivotal role. It acts as one of the two legislative bodies of the EU. Along with the European Parliament, it amends and approves proposals from the European Commission. It wields significant influence over areas like foreign policy and macroeconomic coordination. The Council’s legislative power is shared with the Parliament and Commission. Most laws are subject to the ordinary legislative procedure, requiring consent from both the Council and Parliament. The Council makes decisions through various voting methods. These methods include unanimity, simple majority, or qualified majority, depending on the issue at hand. The Council of the European Union’s organization is complex. The Presidency rotates every six months among member states, ensuring each has a turn at the helm. The Council meets in 10 different configurations of national ministers, with the precise membership varying according to the topic. The General Secretariat provides support for the Council’s operations. COREPER, the Committee of Permanent Representatives, prepares the Council’s work and coordinates with the Parliament. Originally located in Luxembourg City, the Council of the European Union eventually found its home in Brussels, in the Europa building. The building’s distinctive “lantern-shaped” structure has become a symbol of the institution itself.