The European Council is an important institution within the government of the European Union (EU). While it does not directly pass laws or adopt budgets, it plays a crucial role in shaping EU policies and providing general political direction for the EU. Here's a breakdown of the specific functions of the European Council:
1. Setting the EU's political agenda: The European Council determines and sets the strategic priorities and goals for the EU. It discusses and decides on a wide range of issues, such as economy, security, migration, and foreign policy. These decisions shape the direction and priorities of the EU's legislative and executive actions.
2. Resolving disputes among members: The European Council acts as a forum for resolving disputes and finding consensus among EU member states. When there are disagreements or conflicts, the leaders of the member states come together to engage in discussions and negotiations to find common ground and solutions.
3. Ensuring legislation is applied fairly: While the European Council is not directly responsible for ensuring legislation is applied, it provides general political guidance and oversight to ensure that EU laws and policies are implemented effectively and consistently across member states. It can highlight challenges or issues related to the application of legislation and discuss potential solutions or improvements.
4. Representing the EU globally: The European Council represents the EU at the highest level in global affairs. It participates in international meetings, summits, and negotiations on behalf of the EU. The European Council's President, in particular, often takes a leading role in representing the EU's interests and positions on global issues.
To find more details about the functions and activities of the European Council, you can refer to official EU websites, such as the European Council's own website or browse official EU publications. These resources provide comprehensive information on the roles and responsibilities of the European Council within the EU's governance structure.