European Council meaning

The European Council is an institution of the European Union that defines the bloc's overall political direction and priorities.


European Council definitions

Word backwards naeporuE licnuoC
Part of speech Proper noun
Syllabic division Eu-ro-pe-an Coun-cil
Plural The plural form of European Council is European Councils.
Total letters 15
Vogais (6) e,u,o,e,a,i
Consonants (7) e,r,p,n,c,l

The European Council is an institution of the European Union that defines the general political direction and priorities of the EU. It comprises the heads of state or government of the EU member states, along with the President of the European Council and the President of the European Commission.

Role of the European Council

The European Council plays a crucial role in shaping the EU's overall policy agenda and priorities. It provides the EU with the necessary impetus for development and defines the general political direction and priorities.

Decision-Making Process

Decisions within the European Council are made by consensus, meaning that all member states must agree on a course of action. This can sometimes lead to lengthy discussions and negotiations to reach a common position.

President of the European Council

The President of the European Council chairs its meetings and ensures the continuity of the EU's work at the highest level. The President is responsible for driving the Council's work forward and represents the EU externally on issues concerning its common foreign and security policy.

Key Functions

The European Council sets the EU's general political direction and priorities. It does not exercise legislative functions but can provide political guidance on key issues facing the EU. The Council works closely with other EU institutions, such as the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union.

European Council meetings are held quarterly and provide an opportunity for leaders to discuss and reach agreements on key issues affecting the EU. These meetings are crucial for setting the direction of the EU's policies and responding to emerging challenges.

Overall, the European Council plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of the European Union by providing political leadership and guidance on key strategic issues.

Consensus and collaboration are essential within the European Council to ensure that decisions reflect the diverse interests of all member states. The Council's work is vital for maintaining the EU's unity and advancing its common goals.


European Council Examples

  1. The European Council is composed of the heads of state or government of EU member countries.
  2. The European Council meets at least four times a year in Brussels.
  3. Decisions within the European Council are made by consensus among its members.
  4. The European Council sets the EU's overall political direction and priorities.
  5. The European Council appoints the President of the European Commission.
  6. The European Council plays a key role in the negotiation of EU treaties and agreements.
  7. The European Council discusses and coordinates the EU's response to major crises and events.
  8. The President of the European Council chairs its meetings and represents the EU externally.
  9. The European Council works closely with the European Parliament and the European Commission.
  10. The decisions and conclusions of the European Council are legally binding on EU member states.


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  • Updated 28/04/2024 - 13:58:14