European Council
The European Council is the EU institution that defines the general political direction and priorities of the European Union.
Members of the European Council
The members of the European Council are the heads of state or government of the 27 EU member states, the European Council President and the President of the European Commission.
About the European Council
The European Council defines the EU's overall political direction and priorities, traditionally by adopting conclusions. It does not negotiate or adopt EU laws.
History
- The European Council was created as an informal forum for discussion between heads of state or government of the EU member states.
- Under the Treaty of Maastricht, the European Council acquired a formal status and role to provide the impetus and general political guidelines for the EU.
- The European Council became one of the seven EU institutions, following the changes introduced by the Lisbon Treaty.