Council of the European Union

Quick Facts: Who was Council of the European Union?

Subject:

Council of the European Union

Known for:

The EU's legislative body, representing member states' executive positions.

Verified Source:

2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Early Life

The Council of the European Union, often referred to in the treaties and other official documents simply as the Council, and less formally known as the Council of Ministers, is the third of the seven institutions of the European Union (EU) as listed in the Treaty on European Union. It is one of two legislative bodies and together with the European Parliament serves to amend and approve, or veto, the proposals of the European Commission, which holds the right of initiative.

Career & Major Achievements

The Council of the European Union and the European Council are the only EU institutions that are explicitly intergovernmental, that is, forums whose attendees express and represent the position of their member state's executive, be they ambassadors, ministers or heads of state or government. The council meets in 10 different configurations of 27 national ministers (one per state).

Enduring Legacy & Impact

The precise membership of these configurations varies according to the topic under consideration; for example, when discussing agricultural policy the council is formed by the 27 national ministers whose portfolio includes this policy area (with the related European commissioners contributing but not voting).

Notable Quotes by Council of the European Union

“The Council of the European Union is one of two legislative bodies and together with the European Parliament serves to amend and approve, or veto, the proposals of the European Commission.”

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Council of the European Union

True or False: “True or False: The Council of the European Union is the only EU institution that can veto proposals from the European Commission.”

Answer (FALSE ❌): False. The Council, together with the European Parliament, serves to amend and approve, or veto, proposals from the European Commission. Therefore, it is not the only body with this power.

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

• Council of Three Fires — Chrono-Wiki Encyclopedia Entry: A historic alliance of the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi Anishinaabe peoples.
• Council of Trent — Chrono-Wiki Encyclopedia Entry: The 19th ecumenical council defining Catholic doctrine during the Counter-Reformation.
• Count Basie — Chrono-Wiki Encyclopedia Entry: Pioneering jazz pianist, bandleader, and composer known for the Count Basie Orchestra.
• Count of Foix — Chrono-Wiki Encyclopedia Entry: A historical French feudal title, representing a powerful noble lineage in Southern France.
• Countee Cullen — Chrono-Wiki Encyclopedia Entry: Pioneering poet of the Harlem Renaissance, celebrated for lyrical verse and racial themes.
• Counter-Reformation — Chrono-Wiki Encyclopedia Entry: The Catholic resurgence responding to the Protestant Reformation, centered on doctrinal defense and internal reform.

Frequently Asked Questions about Council of the European Union