The European Council plays a crucial role in shaping the future of the European Union (EU), serving as a key body where the heads of state or government of each EU member country come together to set the union's overall political direction and priorities.The European Council began informally in 1975 but was officially recognised with the Treaty of Lisbon in 2009, which marked its evolution into a significant force within the EU’s governance structure. This body includes the heads of state or government from each member country, along with the President of the European Council and the President of the European Commission, who participate in meetings without voting rights.The President of the European Council is elected by the council members through a qualified majority for a term of two and a half years, renewable once. This role involves driving the council's work, ensuring continuity, and representing the EU in issues related to the common foreign and security policy.In terms of functionality, the European Council does not legislate but sets the strategic agenda and provides the political direction for the EU. It tackles major policy areas, particularly those related to foreign policy, and has considerable influence over other significant decisions within the EU framework, such as appointments and policy direction. The decisions are typically made by consensus, which emphasizes the importance of agreement and unity among the member states. However, for certain decisions, a formal vote may be required, adhering to specific procedural rules outlined in the EU treaties.Meetings of the European Council are held at least four times a year and are known as EU summits. These gatherings are crucial for addressing immediate issues and planning long-term strategies. They are held in Brussels, in the Europa building, where the President of the European Council has the authority to convene additional sessions as needed, allowing for flexibility in response to emerging challenges.Every five years, the European Council adopts a strategic agenda that identifies priority areas for future EU actions. This agenda sets the tone for the EU's policy and legislative direction, ensuring focus on relevant and pressing issues such as economic stability, security, environmental sustainability, and global positioning.It’s also important to distinguish the European Council from the Council of the European Union and the Council of Europe. While the European Council is involved in defining broad EU policies and strategic directions, the Council of the European Union, often just called the Council, deals with more specific legislative and policy-making responsibilities. The Council of Europe, on the other hand, is an entirely separate entity focused on promoting human rights, democracy, and the rule of law across the continent and is not a part of the EU’s institutional framework.Understanding the European Council’s role provides a clearer view of how strategic decisions are made within the EU, reflecting the complex interplay of national interests and collective European goals. This body ensures that the diverse voices of the EU member states are integrated into a cohesive policy direction that shapes the future of the union.Not the same as the Council of EuropeDespite the similar names, the European Council is a distinct entity from the Council of Europe. The European Council is part of the EU, while the Council of Europe is an international organisation focused on human rights, which includes countries outside of the EU.A new role from an old treatyThe official status and role of the European Council were only formalised in 2009 with the Treaty of Lisbon, even though it had been operating in a less formal capacity since 1975.Leader of the packThe President of the European Council is often informally referred to as the EU's "president," which can be confusing since the European Commission and the European Parliament also have their own presidents.Rotating presidencyBefore the establishment of a permanent president by the Treaty of Lisbon, the presidency of the European Council rotated every six months among the EU member states, a practice that continues today in the Council of the European Union.Strategic meeting placeThe main headquarters for the European Council meetings is the Europa building in Brussels, which is also known as the "Space Egg" due to its distinctive futuristic design.Key decision maker in crisesThe European Council has been crucial in guiding the EU through significant crises, including economic downturns, migration issues, and the UK’s Brexit.Veto powerWhile the European Council usually makes decisions by consensus, its members hold veto power, meaning any single country can block a decision, which underscores the importance of negotiation and compromise.Language galoreMeetings are conducted in the 24 official languages of the EU, demonstrating the diversity and complexity of managing an organisation that represents so many different cultures and languages. Annual strategic agendaEvery five years, coinciding with the term of the European Parliament, the European Council sets out a strategic agenda, which outlines the key priorities and objectives that will guide the broader EU policy and decision-making.High-level attendees onlyThe meetings of the European Council are exclusively attended by the heads of state or government of the EU countries, the President of the European Council, and the President of the European Commission, emphasising the high-level nature of the discussions and decisions.Exclusive focus on EU policyUnlike other EU bodies that might deal with administrative or legislative functions, the European Council is purely policy-driven. It doesn’t get bogged down with the details of legislation; instead, it sets the broader political agenda for the EU.Crisis management hubDuring times of significant crises, such as financial meltdowns or geopolitical conflicts, the European Council becomes the central decision-making hub. Its ability to convene quickly and make decisions at the highest level makes it a critical stabilising force within the EU.Diplomatic influenceThe conclusions reached and the decisions made by the European Council can influence global politics. The Council's directives on foreign policy, for example, help shape the EU's approach to international relations and global crises, demonstrating its role beyond merely setting internal EU policies.Cultural diversity reflected in cuisineDuring their meetings, the culinary choices made reflect the diverse culture of the member states. It is a tradition that during each country's presidency, dishes from that nation are served, promoting cultural exchange and understanding among the members.
