Which institution proposes legislation, enforces laws, and manages policies and the budget in the EU?

The European Commission is the institution in the European Union responsible for proposing legislation, enforcing laws, managing policies, and overseeing the budget. It acts as the executive body of the EU and represents the interests of the EU as a whole. The Commission is composed of Commissioners, one from each member state, who are tasked with specific policy areas.

The role of proposing new legislation is crucial since it sets the legislative agenda for the EU, allowing it to respond to varying challenges and needs across member states. It also ensures that EU law is implemented uniformly across all member countries. Furthermore, the European Commission manages the EU budget and is responsible for ensuring that funds are used properly and effectively.

In contrast, the other institutions serve different functions. The European Council, made up of heads of state or government, focuses on setting the overall direction and priorities of the EU, rather than proposing specific legislation. The European Parliament plays a critical role in discussing and approving legislation, representing citizens’ interests, but it does not have the initiating authority. The European Central Bank primarily manages monetary policy for the Eurozone and does not engage in the legislative process.