Which does European council do in the government of the European Union
The European Council is an institution of the European Union that plays a crucial role in guiding and shaping EU policies. Its main responsibilities include:
1. Setting the EU's political agenda: The European Council provides strategic direction to the EU by identifying key priorities and setting the broad political objectives for the EU.
2. Taking important policy decisions: It makes decisions on important issues that require unanimous agreement among EU member states, such as the adoption of the EU's budget, the establishment of common foreign and security policies, and the appointment of certain high-level EU officials.
3. Representing the EU at the international level: The European Council represents the EU externally on matters of foreign policy and international cooperation. It shapes the EU's stance in global affairs and represents the EU at international summits and negotiations.
4. Crisis management: In times of crisis, the European Council plays a crucial role in coordinating the response of EU member states. It addresses issues such as economic crises, migration, and security threats, and takes measures to ensure the effective functioning of the EU.
5. Facilitating the EU's enlargement: The European Council approves and guides the process of integrating new member states into the EU. It sets the conditions and criteria for accession, facilitates negotiations with candidate countries, and decides on the formal accession of new members.
6. Strengthening cooperation between member states: The European Council fosters cooperation and dialogue among EU member states, aiming to build consensus and resolve conflicts. It provides a platform for heads of state or government to discuss and coordinate their positions on various issues affecting the EU.
It is important to note that the European Council is composed of the heads of state or government of EU member states, as well as the President of the European Council and the President of the European Commission. Its decisions have significant political and strategic implications for the functioning of the EU.