The European Parliament

This broad-ranging text examines the political dynamic of the European Parliament (EP), showing how the EP is a key component of the political system of the EU. It looks at how, and how effectively, the parliament translates citizen demands into policies, and, in so doing, contributes to wider debates around democracy and legitimacy in the EU.

1. Situating the European Parliament in the EU's Political System.- 2. The Gradual Empowerment of the European Parliament.- 3. Internal Organization.- 4. Legislative and Budgetary Functions.- 5. Non-legislative Functions.- 6. Elections and Electoral Support.- 7. Lobbying, Interest Representation and The Media.- 8. MEPs and their Offices: Managing Frontstage and Backstage roles.- 9. Political Groups and National Party Delegations.- 10. Sites of Translation: From Committees to the Plenary.- 11. The EP as Co-Decider: Key Negotiating Roles and the Power of Concensus.- 12.Conclusion.