European Commission

The Commission is a politically independent collegiate institution which embodies and defends the general interests of the European Union.

The Commission’s virtually exclusive right of initiative in the field of legislation makes it the driving force of European integration.
The Commission also has powers of implementation, management and control. It is responsible for planning and implementing common policies, executing the budget and managing Community programmes. As “Guardian of the Treaties”, it also ensures that European law is applied.

Composition

Competences
  • President: Mr. Barroso
  • 25 Commissioners
    • Ms. Benita Ferrero-Waldner, External relations and ENP
  • 24 Directorates General, eg:
    • DG Relex, DG for Humanitarian Aid (ECHO)
  • EuropAid
  • EC Delegations in third countries

The Commission is appointed for a five-year term by the Council acting by qualified majority in agreement with the Member States.
  • Proposes EU legislation and policies
  • Executive body
  • Proposes EU Budget
  • Negotiates agreements with third countries (AA)
  • Negotiates and monitors implementation of  the APs
  • Prepares and follow up meetings of EMP
  • Manages EU assistance to third countries
  • Develops country strategies, NIPs and RIPs

Directorate General RELEX

EuropeAid
The political direction of EU Foreign Affairs
Cooperation Office that manages EU assistance to third countries
  • Annual financing plan based on NIP/RIP
  • Managing MEDA and EIDHR Projects

EC Delegations
  • New role of the Delegations following the de-concentration reform
  • Responsibilities of the Delegations : 
    • Represent the Commission in third countries
    • Increased role on the ground in countries in EU policy making
    • Manages budget lines for MEDA Human rights and civil society and EIDHR micro-projects
    • Reports on political developments and HR