3. El poder ejecutivo. La Comisión Europea

Understanding the Structure of European Union Institutions

Overview of EU Institutional Framework

• The video introduces the second block of a course focused on the organizational structure of the European Union (EU), aiming to clarify its political and governance systems.

• It highlights historical challenges in distinguishing between executive and legislative powers within the EU, noting that both the Commission and Council exercised these roles while the European Parliament had less influence.

• A process of "parlamentarization" has occurred over time, increasing the importance and role of the European Parliament within EU institutions.

Current Division of Powers

• The current structure delineates four distinct powers:

• Executive Power: Held by both the European Commission and Council.

• Legislative Power: Shared by the Parliament and Council, akin to a bicameral system.

• Judicial Power: Exclusively held by the Court of Justice of the European Union.

Focus on Executive Institutions

• The video begins an analysis of executive institutions, starting with a detailed examination of the European Commission's role as central to EU governance.

• The Commission is described as unique within EU structures, serving as a unifying element among various institutions while holding significant political responsibilities daily.

Legislative Initiative and Influence

• The Commission holds monopoly over legislative initiatives in most areas, playing a crucial role in problem identification, agenda-setting, and shaping future directions for the EU.

• It acts as a primary interlocutor with member states' governments and interest groups, mediating positions during negotiations.

Composition and Leadership Structure

• The Commission comprises 27 Commissioners from each member state led by a President who allocates portfolios.

• Key leadership includes eight Vice Presidents (three being executive), along with other commissioners responsible for specific policies.

Appointment Process for Leadership Roles

• The appointment process involves national leaders proposing candidates based on parliamentary election outcomes; candidates must gain majority support from Members of Parliament (MEPs).

• Following approval from national leaders at a summit, candidates present their plans to MEPs before final voting occurs to confirm their appointments.

Role of Secretary General

Understanding the Role of the Secretary General and the Commission

The Function of the Secretary General

• The Secretary General serves as the primary service for the President, coordinating closely with other presidential services to ensure effective institutional functioning.

• Provides advice and support to Vice Presidents in their roles, working alongside staff attached to the President and project coordinators.

Structure and Workforce of the Commission

• The Commission is not just a political body; it functions as a significant administrative entity with over 28,000 permanent employees across 44 departments known as Directorates-General.

• Each Directorate-General focuses on specific policy areas and is led by a Director General who reports to a Commissioner.

Employment Types within the Commission

• Employees include officials hired through competitive processes, temporary contractual agents, and seconded national experts from EU member states.

• Additionally, there are numerous interns (around 1,200 every six months), contributing to various projects within EU institutions.

Decision-Making Process in the Commission

• Major decisions are made collectively among members rather than individually, adhering to a principle called collegiality where each vote carries equal weight.

• Decisions typically require consensus without opposition from any member; confidentiality is maintained during these processes.

Meeting Structures and Responsibilities

• Preparation for decision-making occurs in cabinet meetings moderated by the Secretary General every Monday, setting agendas for subsequent discussions.