EU Institutions

The Council is the main decision-making body of the European Union. The ministers of the member states meet within the Council of the European Union. Depending on the issue on the agenda, each country will be represented by the minister responsible for that subject (foreign affairs, finance, social affairs, transport, agriculture, etc.).

The Council is responsible for decision-making and co-ordination. It passes laws, usually legislating jointly with the European Parliament and co-ordinates the broad economic policies of the member states.

The Council defines and implements the EU’s common foreign and security policy, based on guidelines set by the European Council. It also concludes, on behalf of the Community and the Union, international agreements between the EU and one or more states or international organisations.

The Council co-ordinates the actions of member states and adopts measures in the area of police and judicial co-operation in criminal matters.

The Council and the European Parliament constitute the budgetary authority that adopts the Community’s budget.

For further information: http://ue.eu.int/cms3_fo/showPage.asp?id=242&am...

Presidency of the Council of the European Union

The Council is presided for a period of six months (from January to June, and from July to December) by each member state in turn, in accordance with a pre-established rota.

The Presidency of the Council plays an essential role in organising the work of the institution, particularly in promoting legislative and political decisions. It is responsible for organising and chairing all meetings, including the many working groups, and for brokering compromises.

Presidency order of rotation

2009-2020