How many member states are represented in the current European Commission?

The current European Commission consists of 27 members, with one Commissioner nominated from each of the 27 member states of the European Union. Although nominated by their home states, Commissioners are bound by oath to represent the general interests of the EU as a whole, rather than their individual member states.

When was the European Commission established?

The European Commission was established on January 16, 1958, following the signing of the Treaties of Rome. Its origins, however, trace back to the High Authority of the European Coal and Steel Community, which was created in 1951.

Who is the current President of the European Commission, and when did she take office?

The current President of the European Commission is Ursula von der Leyen. She assumed office on December 1, 2019, and is leading the second von der Leyen Commission, which commenced its term in December 2024.

How is the President of the European Commission appointed?

The President of the European Commission is appointed through an indirect election process. The European Council proposes a candidate, taking into account the results of the European Parliament elections, and this candidate must then be elected by the European Parliament.

What is the historical origin of the European Commission?

The European Commission's origins lie in the proposal by French Foreign Minister Robert Schuman on May 9, 1950. It first emerged as the High Authority of the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC) in 1951, evolving through various treaties and communities over time.

What were the initial executive bodies that preceded the current European Commission?

Before the Merger Treaty in 1967 combined them, the European executives consisted of the High Authority of the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC), the Commission of the European Economic Community (EEC), and the Commission of the European Atomic Energy Community (Euratom).

What was the significance of the Merger Treaty concerning the European executives?

The Merger Treaty, signed in 1965 and effective from 1967, combined the executives of the three European Communities (ECSC, EEC, and Euratom) into a single administration. This consolidation aimed to streamline the institutional structure of the burgeoning European integration.

Who was the first President of the European Commission?

Walter Hallstein is considered the first President of the modern European Commission, leading the Commission of the European Economic Community (EEC) from 1958. Prior to this, Jean Monnet led the High Authority of the ECSC, established in 1952.

What was the 'empty chair' crisis, and how did it affect the Commission?

The 'empty chair' crisis in 1965 stemmed from disagreements between France, led by Charles de Gaulle, and other member states on issues like the Common Agricultural Policy and institutional powers. This crisis led to the resignation of Étienne Hirsch from the Euratom presidency and impacted Walter Hallstein's EEC presidency.

How did the Santer Commission's tenure end?

The entire Santer Commission was forced to resign in 1999 due to a fraud and corruption scandal, brought to light by internal auditor Paul van Buitenen. This event marked the first time a College of Commissioners resigned en masse and signified a shift in power towards the European Parliament.

What was the impact of the Treaty of Lisbon on the European Commission's structure and the President's role?

The Treaty of Lisbon mandated a reduction in the number of Commissioners to two-thirds of the member states from 2014, with membership rotating equally and no state having more than one Commissioner. It also linked the appointment of the Commission President more closely to European election results and combined the roles of High Representative and External Relations Commissioner.

What are the main responsibilities of the European Commission as outlined in Article 17 of the Treaty on European Union?

According to Article 17 of the Treaty on European Union, the Commission is responsible for developing medium-term strategies, drafting legislation and arbitrating in the legislative process, representing the EU in trade negotiations, making rules and regulations (e.g., in competition policy), drawing up the EU budget, and scrutinizing the implementation of treaties and legislation.

How does the European Commission exercise executive power, particularly after the Treaty of Lisbon?

Following the Treaty of Lisbon, the European Commission exercises its executive powers directly by virtue of the treaties, rather than being conferred powers by the Council. While its powers are generally more restricted than national executives, especially in foreign policy, the Commission holds significant executive authority over the EU's day-to-day operations.

What is unique about the European Commission's role in legislative initiative?

The European Commission holds a unique monopoly on legislative initiative within the EU; only the Commission can make formal proposals for legislation. This is designed to ensure coordinated and coherent drafting of EU law, although the Council and Parliament can request the Commission to propose legislation.

On what principle does the European Commission often base its legislative proposals, particularly concerning environmental and health issues?

The European Commission often bases its legislative proposals on the 'precautionary principle.' This principle guides the Commission to implement pre-emptive regulations when there is a credible hazard to the environment or human health, as seen in its actions regarding climate change and genetically modified organisms.

What is the role of the European Commission as the 'Guardian of the Treaties'?

As the 'Guardian of the Treaties,' the European Commission is responsible for ensuring that EU treaties and laws are upheld. It can initiate legal proceedings against member states or other institutions at the Court of Justice of the European Union if they fail to comply with EU law.

How is the European Commission structured internally?

The Commission is organized into departments known as Directorates-General (DGs), each responsible for a specific policy area or internal service. Each DG is headed by a Director-General who reports to a Commissioner, and they prepare legislative proposals and manage policy implementation.

What is the function of a Commissioner's 'cabinet'?

Each Commissioner is supported by a personal cabinet, which provides political guidance and assists in managing the Commissioner's portfolio. The cabinets work alongside the Directorates-General (DGs), which handle the technical preparation and administrative tasks.

What is the 'comitology' process?

Comitology refers to the process where the European Commission, in implementing legislation passed by the Council and Parliament, is assisted by committees composed of representatives from member states. These committees provide input and oversight on the technical measures required for implementing EU law.

What is the primary function of the Directorate-General for Communication?

The Directorate-General for Communication is responsible for managing the Commission's communication with the press and the public. It handles press briefings, supports the President and Commissioners in their communication efforts, and produces press releases.

What criticism has been leveled against the European Commission regarding its press releases?

It has been noted that the Commission's press releases are often uniquely political, lengthy, and complex, serving to justify the EU and the Commission itself. Competition between departments and Commissioners can also influence the content and number of releases.

How does the European Commission derive its legitimacy, and what criticisms are raised regarding this?

The Commission's legitimacy is primarily derived from the European Parliament's vote of approval and its power to dismiss the body. Criticisms include the relatively low turnout in European Parliament elections and the fact that the Commission President is not directly elected by EU citizens, raising concerns about democratic accountability.

What role does the European Commission play in promoting digitalization within the EU?

The European Commission has pushed for the digitalization of EU society through initiatives like a multi-year data plan. The goal is to create a single market for data, facilitating data flow across sectors while respecting privacy and strengthening the EU's global economic position in the digital age.

Where are the main headquarters and operational centers of the European Commission located?

The political seat of the European Commission is in Brussels, Belgium, with its main offices in the Berlaymont building. It also operates out of numerous other buildings in Brussels and has offices in Luxembourg City. Commissioners also meet in Strasbourg when the Parliament is in session there.

What are some of the criticisms regarding the European Commission's transparency and lobbying practices?

Criticisms have been raised concerning the Commission's transparency, unclear lobbyist relations, conflicts of interest, and excessive spending, as highlighted in various audit reports. Citizens' complaints filed with the European Ombudsman often cite a lack of transparency as a primary concern.

What was the purpose of the European Commission's Anti-Racism Action Plan introduced in September 2020?

The Anti-Racism Action Plan aims to address structural racism within the European Union. It includes measures to tackle the lack of racial diversity among European decision-makers in Brussels, responding to movements like #BrusselsSoWhite.

What initiative did the European Commission undertake in response to the COVID-19 pandemic regarding vaccine development?

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the European Commission organized a video conference on May 4, 2020, to raise funds for COVID-19 vaccine development, successfully securing $8 billion.

What is the significance of the 'spitzenkandidat' process in relation to the European Commission President?

The 'spitzenkandidat' process, though not always strictly followed, involves linking the election of the European Parliament to the selection of the Commission President. The candidate from the dominant European political party that wins the most seats in the European Parliament is typically considered the leading contender for the presidency.

How has the European Commission's role evolved regarding criminal law?

The European Commission has increasingly moved into creating European criminal law, particularly in response to incidents like the 2006 toxic waste spill. Commissioners have proposed legislation on 'ecological crimes' and other areas, with the European Court of Justice upholding the Commission's right to propose such laws.

What is the function of the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF)?

The European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) was created in response to the Santer Commission scandal. Its purpose is to investigate fraud, corruption, and other illegal activities affecting the financial interests of the EU, aiming to protect the EU budget and ensure the proper use of funds.

How does the Commission ensure the implementation of EU legislation?

Once legislation is passed, the Commission is responsible for ensuring its implementation, either directly through member states or via its agencies. It is assisted by 'comitology' committees, which include member state representatives and stakeholders, in adopting the necessary technical measures.

What is the role of the European Commission in international trade negotiations?

The European Commission represents the European Union in international trade negotiations, such as those within the World Trade Organization (WTO). Its proposals and actions in this area significantly influence global trade practices due to the size of the EU market.

What is the '26+1' formula mentioned in relation to the Treaty of Lisbon and the Commission's composition?

The '26+1' formula refers to a proposal stemming from the Treaty of Lisbon, intended to address concerns about the loss of a Commissioner per member state. It suggested that the member state not receiving a Commissioner would host the High Representative, maintaining a structure of 26 Commissioners plus the High Representative.

What is the purpose of the European Commission's 'cabinets'?

Each Commissioner is supported by a personal cabinet, which acts as a political advisory team. These cabinets help the Commissioner manage their portfolio, prepare policy proposals, and liaise with other institutions and stakeholders.

How does the European Commission's legislative approach, often based on the 'precautionary principle', impact global markets?

By often proposing stricter legislation based on the precautionary principle, particularly in areas like climate change and environmental protection, the European Commission influences global markets. The size of the EU market means that its regulations often set de facto global standards.

What is the significance of the European Commission's presence in multiple locations?

While the political heart of the Commission is in Brussels, it also maintains offices and scientific facilities in Luxembourg City, Strasbourg, and various other locations across member states. This distributed presence allows it to engage with different regions and conduct specialized scientific research.

What is the role of the European Commission in managing the EU budget?

The European Commission is responsible for drafting the EU's annual budget and ensuring its correct implementation. It works alongside the European Court of Auditors to oversee the spending of EU funds, ensuring accountability and proper use.

How has the European Parliament's role in approving the Commission evolved?

The European Parliament has increasingly asserted its influence over the Commission's formation. It now not only approves the College of Commissioners as a whole but also plays a key role in electing the Commission President, having the power to reject candidates proposed by the European Council.

What is the function of the Directorate-General for Translation within the European Commission?

The Directorate-General for Translation is the largest department within the European Commission, employing a significant number of staff. Its primary role is to provide translation services for the Commission's documents and communications, supporting the EU's multilingualism policy.

What is the 'European Green Deal' initiative mentioned in relation to the Commission's environmental policy?

The European Green Deal is a significant initiative under the Commission's environmental policy. It outlines a strategy to make the EU climate-neutral by 2050, focusing on sustainable economic growth and environmental protection.

What is the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive, and when is it expected to be adopted?

The Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive, proposed by the European Commission in February 2022, establishes a framework for companies to identify and address potential risks and harm related to human rights and the environment. It is expected to be officially adopted in 2024 and then transposed into national laws by EU member states within two years.

What is the purpose of the European Commission's Data Strategy?

The European Commission's Data Strategy aims to create a single market for data across the EU. This initiative seeks to facilitate data flow across sectors while ensuring privacy and data protection, ultimately boosting the European economy and its global competitiveness in the data-driven era.

How does the European Commission handle press relations?

The Commission's Directorate-General for Communication manages press relations, including daily midday press briefings in the Berlaymont building. The Spokesperson's Service, in coordination with the President's cabinet, supports the President and Commissioners in their communication efforts.

What is the significance of the European Commission having a large press corps in Brussels?

Brussels hosts a larger press corps than Washington, D.C., with media outlets from all EU member states maintaining correspondents there. This extensive press presence reflects the significant role the Commission and EU institutions play in global affairs and the constant flow of information and policy developments.

What is the role of the European Commission in promoting European identity and integration?

The Commission plays a role in fostering European identity and integration through various policies and initiatives. These include promoting freedom of movement, supporting cultural and educational exchanges, and working towards common policies in areas like security and economic affairs.

What is the 'Guardian of the Treaties' role of the European Commission?

The European Commission is known as the 'Guardian of the Treaties' because it is responsible for ensuring that EU treaties and legislation are correctly applied and upheld by member states and other EU institutions. If a member state fails to comply, the Commission can take legal action at the Court of Justice of the European Union.

How does the European Commission interact with the European Parliament regarding legislative proposals?

While the Commission holds the primary right of legislative initiative, the European Parliament can request the Commission to draft proposals. Once the Commission submits a proposal, it goes through the ordinary legislative procedure, requiring approval from both the Parliament and the Council of the European Union.

What is the significance of the European Commission's independent supranational authority?

The Commission was designed from the outset to act as an independent supranational authority, separate from the influence of national governments. This independence allows it to prioritize the overall interests of the EU and act as a neutral arbiter in policy-making and enforcement.

What is the 'European Political Strategy Centre' within the Commission's administration?

The European Political Strategy Centre, also known as the 'European Political Strategy Centre' (EPSC), serves as a strategic advisory unit within the Commission. It supports the President and Commissioners in developing forward-looking policy ideas and anticipating future challenges.

What is the function of the European Personnel Selection Office (EPSO)?

The European Personnel Selection Office (EPSO) is responsible for organizing recruitment competitions for EU institutions. Its role is to select qualified candidates from across the EU to fill permanent and temporary positions within the various EU bodies, including the Commission.

European Commission Wiki: The European Commission: Architect of the Union

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The Executive Core

Defining Role

The European Commission serves as the primary executive branch of the European Union (EU). It functions akin to a cabinet government, responsible for proposing legislation, implementing decisions, upholding the EU treaties, and managing the day-to-day business of the Union.^[1]

Organizational Structure

The Commission comprises a College of Commissioners, with one member representing each of the 27 member states. These Commissioners are supported by approximately 32,000 civil servants organized into Directorates-General (DGs), which function as specialized departments or ministries.^[1]

Headquarters

The Commission's principal seat is the Berlaymont building in Brussels, Belgium, a landmark structure symbolizing its executive authority. It also maintains offices in Luxembourg City.^[1]

Evolution of the Executive

Genesis and Early Development

The Commission's origins trace back to the High Authority of the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC), established in 1951 under the leadership of Jean Monnet. Following the Treaties of Rome in 1957, separate Commissions were created for the European Economic Community (EEC) and the European Atomic Energy Community (Euratom). The Merger Treaty of 1965 unified these executives into a single Commission.^[8]

The transformation from early supranational bodies to the modern European Commission reflects evolving integration dynamics:

Treaty/Document	Year Signed	Year Effective	Executive Body
Treaty of Paris (ECSC)	1951	1952	High Authority of the ECSC
Treaties of Rome (EEC, Euratom)	1957	1958	Commission of the EEC / Commission of Euratom
Merger Treaty	1965	1967	Commission of the European Communities
Treaty of Lisbon	2007	2009	European Commission

Key Presidencies

Walter Hallstein served as the first President of the EEC Commission, significantly shaping early European law and policy. Later, Jacques Delors presided over a period of dynamic growth and integration. The current leadership is represented by President Ursula von der Leyen, who took office in December 2019.^[5]

Institutional Dynamics

The Commission's operational autonomy has been shaped by inter-institutional dynamics. The "empty chair crisis" of 1965, stemming from disagreements between France and other member states, highlighted tensions regarding the balance of power between the Commission and the Council.^[10]

Organizational Framework

College of Commissioners

The core executive body consists of the President and the Commissioners, one from each member state. Appointed for a five-year term, they are collectively responsible for the Commission's work. Crucially, Commissioners are bound by oath to represent the general interest of the EU, independent of their national governments.^[4]

Directorates-General (DGs)

The Commission's administrative arm is structured into Directorates-General (DGs) and other services. Each DG is responsible for a specific policy area, such as Agriculture, Competition, or Climate Action. They are headed by Directors-General who report directly to the relevant Commissioner.^[1]

The 33 Directorates-General cover the breadth of EU policy areas, including:

Agriculture and Rural Development
Climate Action
Competition
Economic and Financial Affairs
Energy
Environment
Health and Food Safety
Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship and SMEs
Justice and Consumers
Mobility and Transport
Research and Innovation
Trade

Legislative Initiative

A fundamental function of the Commission is its exclusive right of legislative initiative. It drafts proposals for new EU laws, which are then submitted to the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union for consideration and adoption.^[1]

Core Mandates

Upholding Treaties

The Commission acts as the "guardian of the Treaties," ensuring that EU law is correctly applied across all member states. It monitors compliance and can initiate legal proceedings against member states or companies that fail to adhere to EU regulations.^[1]

Representing the EU

Internationally, the Commission represents the EU in trade negotiations and other global forums. It manages the EU's common policies, such as the Common Agricultural Policy, and administers the EU budget.^[1]

Policy Implementation

The Commission is responsible for implementing the policies and objectives set out in the EU treaties and legislation. This includes managing EU funding programs and coordinating actions across member states to achieve common goals.^[1]

Member States

The Union's Foundation

The European Commission serves the 27 member states of the European Union. Each state contributes one Commissioner to the College, ensuring representation across the diverse political and economic landscape of the Union.^[1]

The current 27 member states are:

Austria
Belgium
Bulgaria
Croatia
Cyprus
Czech Republic
Denmark
Estonia
Finland
France
Germany
Greece
Hungary
Ireland
Italy
Latvia
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Malta
Netherlands
Poland
Portugal
Romania
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain
Sweden

Leadership and Appointment

Presidential Nomination

The President of the European Commission is a pivotal role. Nominated by the European Council (comprising the heads of state or government), the candidate must then be elected by a majority vote in the European Parliament.^[5] This process underscores the democratic accountability of the executive branch.

Current Leadership

Ursula von der Leyen assumed the presidency on December 1, 2019, leading the current Commission. Her administration is tasked with navigating complex policy challenges and advancing the EU's strategic objectives.^[1]

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References

Anne-CÃ©cile Robert (March 2009) "Et la crise sociale a rattrapÃ© le Parlement europÃ©en", Le Monde diplomatique. p. 6â7

A full list of references for this article are available at the European Commission Wikipedia page

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Academic Disclaimer

Important Notice

This content has been generated by an AI, drawing exclusively from the provided source material. It is intended for advanced academic and educational purposes, aiming to provide a structured and comprehensive overview of the European Commission.

This is not official EU documentation or professional political analysis. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy based on the source, users are advised to consult official EU publications and academic resources for definitive information and context. The AI does not provide legal, political, or governmental advice.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any interpretations, applications, or actions taken based on the information presented herein.

The European Commission: Architect of the Union

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

The Executive Core 🏛️

🇪🇺 Defining Role

🏢 Organizational Structure

📍 Headquarters

Evolution of the Executive ⏳

📜 Genesis and Early Development

🏛️ Key Presidencies

💥 Institutional Dynamics

Organizational Framework ⚙️

🧑‍💼 College of Commissioners

🗂️ Directorates-General (DGs)

⚖️ Legislative Initiative

Core Mandates 🎯

📜 Upholding Treaties

🤝 Representing the EU

📈 Policy Implementation

Member States 🌍

🇪🇺 The Union's Foundation

Leadership and Appointment 👑

🧑‍⚖️ Presidential Nomination

👩‍💼 Current Leadership

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

📜 References

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Academic Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

The Executive Core

Defining Role

Organizational Structure

Headquarters

Evolution of the Executive

Genesis and Early Development

Key Presidencies

Institutional Dynamics

Organizational Framework

College of Commissioners

Directorates-General (DGs)

Legislative Initiative

Core Mandates

Upholding Treaties

Representing the EU

Policy Implementation

Member States

The Union's Foundation

Leadership and Appointment

Presidential Nomination

Current Leadership

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Academic Disclaimer

Important Notice