16.1.2018 -
This highlight of today was visiting the European Union's headquarter's in London. We learned about how the EU works, which roughly boils down to this diagram:
The "Brexit Bicycle" shows the different aspects of the EU, comprised of the European Council (handlebars), European Commission (structure/body), European Parliament (front wheel), and the Council of the EU (back wheel). The names could have been a bit more diverse and easier to tell apart... In a nutshell, the sections are defined as:
The European Council sets the EU's broad priorities and combines national and EU leaders
The European Parliament is the MEPs (Members of European Parliament) who represent European Citizens. There are 750 MEPs and a president, roughly in proportion to a country's population.
The European Commission, appointed by national governments, promotes the overall interests of the EU.
The Council of the EU is formed of special interest ministers from countries, organized for specific issues.
I wasn't able to go on last week's tour of the Houses of Parliament because it was Saturday (and I had Shabbis, which meant no driving). But I'll be able to go once they open back up for weekday tours later in the semester!
In conclusion? The EU and Brexit are complex and confusing.
Best!
-Ruth xoxo
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