Council of the European Union (2013d), The Council of the European Union

The Council of the European Union is the forum where national ministers from all EU countries come together to make decisions that shape Europe. It is responsible for negotiating and adopting EU laws, approving the budget, concluding international agreements, and helping to develop the EU’s foreign and security policy. The Council also plays a coordinating role in areas where member states need to align their national policies. This website is the central place where people can access all information about the Council, from news and conclusions to details of upcoming meetings.

Its work takes place at different levels. While ministers make the final decisions during formal Council meetings, ambassadors prepare the ground through the Committee of Permanent Representatives (Coreper), and national experts examine proposals in specialist working groups. The presidency of the Council rotates every six months among member states, ensuring that all countries share the responsibility of chairing meetings and guiding the agenda. This system keeps decision-making balanced and collaborative across the Union.