Duties of the European Parliament

The European Parliament prepares the laws of the European Union together with the Council of Ministers. The Parliament also approves the Union budget. The Parliament oversees the activities of the Commission and EU institutions. It approves the appointment of the Chairman of the Commission and may dismiss the whole Commission. The Parliament is responsible for ensuring that the EU institutions always act democratically.

Joint decisions

Parliament works closely together with the Council of the European Union otherwise known as the Council of Ministers. It discusses proposed laws and the budget. Many decisions are made together. All important decisions must always be presented to the Parliament for approval. That is why it is important for every country to have its own representatives in the European Parliament.

Also, the Parliament gives statements on issues that the Heads of State and Government discuss at the summit meetings of the European Council.

Budget

The European Union receives most of the money it needs the membership fees paid by the member states. Large member states pay more than small ones. The preliminary budget for the Union is prepared by the European Commission. After that the European Parliament and Council of Ministers review the budget and make the necessary corrections. The budget is approved when the Parliament is satisfied with it.