The European Union has 27 member states and comprises the following Brussels, Luxembourg and Strasbourg based institutions:
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The European Commission (EC) - the policy making body of the EU. The EC initiates policy, drafts and enforces legislation, proposes and implements work programmes.
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The Council of the European Union - The main decision making body; consists of the governments of all member states; decides on the legislation proposed by the Commission.
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European Parliament - Directly elected body with members representing the citizens of the EU; acts with Council as budgetary authority; key role in legislation.
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European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) - A consultative body set up to advise the 3 major institutions (European Parliament, Council of the EU and the EC)
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Committee of the Regions (COR) - The political assembly that represents local and regional authorities within the European Union.
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Court of Justice - Responsible for the interpretation of European law; deals with dispute.
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Court of Auditors - Supervises the EU budget.
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Council of Europe - Promotes democracy, human rights, and the rule of law in Europe.
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European Court of Human Rights - Ensures that each State observes the obligations under the European Convention of Human Rights
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European Ombudsman - The European Ombudsman investigates complaints regarding maladministration in the institutions and bodies
Further information
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Introduction to careers in the EU (pdf) - slides from our careers seminar which provides an introduction to careers in the EU for graduates
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Getting you into the EU - website from the Foreign Office which provides resources, information and a useful summary about routes into an EU career