EU competences

EU competences refer to the areas where the European Union has authority to make decisions and pass laws. These powers are granted by member countries through treaties and are limited to specific topics such as trade, competition, agriculture, environment, and consumer protection. In areas where the EU has competence, its laws take precedence over national laws. However, member states retain sovereignty in many areas like education and health, where they primarily make decisions. The division of competences ensures the EU can act effectively while respecting national differences.