What do Erasmus, the Euro, Galileo and Schengen have in common? All are iconic EU initiatives that have changed the course of Europe. All were born after first being officially agreed by the College of Commissioners and proposed by the European Commission, during one of its weekly meetings. Today we celebrate the landmark 2,500th such meeting!
Since the first time in January 1958, the College of Commissioners meeting has played an integral role in the EU legislative process. It is where Commission proposals are collectively decided upon and made official by the Commission. Once the proposals are agreed upon, they are sent to the Council of the EU and the European Parliament for examination and adoption.
The agenda for these meetings is set by the Commission President and is closely linked to the Commission’s annual work programme. Each item on the agenda is presented by the Commissioner responsible for the area concerned.
The College is comprised of the President and 26 Commissioners, each of whom has a designated portfolio. Every Wednesday morning, they meet in Brussels to discuss current developments and adopt new proposals. During the plenary sessions of the European Parliament in Strasbourg, the meeting takes place on a Tuesday in Strasbourg.
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