About the European Parliament

The European Parliament is one of the main institutions of the European Union (EU) and plays a crucial role in the decision-making process of the bloc. A discussion about this institution can cover several key aspects:
The European Parliament is made up of Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) who are directly elected by the citizens of EU member states. European elections take place every five years, and the number of seats each country holds is proportional to its population. Currently, the Parliament has 705 members, and they are organized into political groups rather than along national lines, emphasizing the transnational nature of the institution.
The European Parliament has several important functions in EU governance:
Legislative Function: Together with the Council of the European Union, the Parliament adopts laws that affect all member states. While the European Commission proposes legislation, the Parliament and the Council approve it and can make amendments.
Budgetary Control: The Parliament plays a key role in shaping the EU’s budget, with the power to approve or reject the proposed budget. It also oversees how EU funds are spent and can request audits in cases of corruption or mismanagement and much more.
In conclusion, the European Parliament is a vital institution for the democratic functioning of the European Union, with diverse roles in legislation, budget oversight, and supervising EU institutions. However, it needs to improve communication and connection with European citizens to further strengthen its legitimacy and influence.