European Union Institutions and Legislation

The European Union (EU) consists of key institutions that shape its legislation and policies. The European Commission proposes new laws, the European Parliament represents citizens and approves legislation, and the Council of the EU represents member states' governments. Citizens' rights are protected by the Court of Justice of the EU. Legislation can take various forms, including regulations, which are binding across all member states, and directives, which set goals for countries to achieve in their own laws. Together, these institutions ensure cooperation and legal frameworks among the EU's 27 member countries.