European Union's Executive Body, the Commission
European Commission Reaffirms Its Role and Composition
As of July 18, 2024, the European Commission continues to represent the 27 member states of the European Union, a diverse union that includes Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, and Sweden.
At the helm of this esteemed organisation is Ursula von der Leyen, who was re-elected as the President of the European Commission on the same date. The European Commission, often referred to as the "Guardian of the Treaties," is responsible for the application of the community treaty law and the regulations adopted by the organs.
The President of the Commission sets the political guidelines and has the exclusive right of initiative for proposals to maintain, develop, and apply the community policies, except for parts of the area of justice and home affairs. The Commission is a collegial body that usually makes decisions jointly.
The European Commission has a significant role in the appointment process. The European Council submits a proposal for the election of the President of the Commission, taking into account the outcome of the election to the European Parliament. The European Parliament plays a crucial role in the appointment of the President, the High Representative, and the other Commissioners.
The High Representative of the Union for Foreign and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, who assumed office on December 1, 2024, is also a Vice-President of the European Commission. The appointment of the High Representative is a separate process from the appointment of the other Commissioners. The High Representative is appointed with the consent of the President of the Commission by the European Council and is one of the 27 members of the European Commission.
The other members of the Commission are chosen by the President of the Commission in agreement with the Council, based on proposals from the member states. The composition of the European Commission is based on the principle "one member state, one member in the Commission," currently consisting of 27 members.
The European Commission can issue binding legal acts in the context of implementing secondary law. The European Parliament must approve the President, the High Representative, and the other Commissioners as a whole college before the final appointment of the Commission by the European Council. The European Commission is responsible for negotiating trade and other agreements with third countries, when the subject matter falls within its competence.
The term of office for the European Commission is five years, and the Commission serves as the administrative authority subordinate to this college, with a total of around 33,000 employees. The European Commission, with its diverse membership and crucial roles, continues to play a significant part in the governance and development of the European Union.
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