European Commission

European Commission (EC) is the executive branch of the European Union (EU), responsible for proposing legislation, implementing decisions, upholding the EU treaties and managing the day-to-day business of the EU. The Commission operates as a cabinet government, with 27 members of the Commission (informally known as "commissioners"). There is one member per member state, but members are bound by their oath of office to represent the general interest of the EU as a whole rather than their home state.

History

The European Commission was established in 1958. It originated from the High Authority of the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC), which was created in 1952. The ECSC was one of the three foundational organizations that were merged to form the European Union in 1993.

Structure

The Commission is divided into departments known as Directorates-General (DGs) that can be likened to departments or ministries. Each DG is responsible for a particular policy area and is headed by a Commissioner. The President of the European Commission is the head of the Commission and sets its policy agenda.

Role and Functions

The European Commission has four main roles: to propose legislation to the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union; to administer and implement Community policies; to enforce European law; and to negotiate international agreements, mainly those relating to trade and cooperation.

Criticism and Controversies

The European Commission has been the subject of criticism and controversies over the years. These have ranged from allegations of corruption and fraud to criticisms about the lack of transparency and democratic legitimacy.

See Also

• European Union
• European Parliament
• Council of the European Union
• President of the European Commission