How the European Union works
A citizen’s guide to the EU institutions

European Commission

Manuscript completed in June 2003
2003 - 43 pp. - 16.2 x 22.9 cm
Catalogue number: NA-41-01-010-EN-C

Text only:  254 Kb

Illustrated version: 2862 Kb

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In just half a century, the European Union (EU) has achieved remarkable things. It has delivered peace between its Member States and prosperity for its citizens. It has created a single European currency (the euro) and a frontier-free ‘single market’ where goods, people, services and capital move around freely. The EU has grown from six to 15 countries and it is preparing to embrace a dozen more. It has become a major trading power and a world leader in fields such as environmental protection and development aid. 
The EU’s success owes a lot to the way its works — its unique method of interaction between institutions such as the European Parliament, the Council and the European Commission, supported by a number of agencies and other bodies.
This booklet gives a comprehensive overview of what each institution, agency or body does and how it is organised.