Powers and procedures 

The European treaties have given Parliament a broad range of powers as the EU’s directly-elected body. Learn more in the following sections and find out how the procedures work.

Legislative powers 

Together with the representatives of EU governments in the Council, Parliament is responsible for adopting EU legislation. Under the ordinary legislative procedure, both institutions act as equal co-legislators. In some special cases, other procedures may apply.

Budgetary powers 

Parliament and Council have to agree on the annual EU budget. Find out about the procedure.

Supervisory powers 

MEPs oversee the work of EU institutions, notably the European Commission, which is the executive arm of the European Union.

National parliaments 

Learn how the European Parliament cooperates with national parliaments on European affairs.

The Lisbon Treaty 

The Lisbon Treaty is the latest revision of the European treaties that gave more powers to the European Parliament. Find out the details.