Last Stop on our European Excursion to Strasbourg was the EU Parliament.
The European Parliament in Strasbourg is one of the key institutions of the European Union (EU) and serves as the representative body of EU citizens. Established in 1952, the Parliament has evolved to play a central role in the EU’s legislative process, working alongside the European Commission and the Council of the European Union.
The Parliament consists of 705 Members of the European Parliament (MEPs), who are directly elected every five years by citizens of the EU member states. The primary functions of the European Parliament include debating and passing legislation, scrutinizing the work of the European Commission, and representing the interests of EU citizens.
In our guided tour we learned why there are two EU Parliaments and what separates Strasbourg from Burssels. Strasbourg hosts the Parliament’s official seat, where monthly plenary sessions take place, whereas parliamentary committees, which focus on specific policy areas, meet regularly in Brussels. The Parliament’s location in Strasbourg symbolizes the EU’s commitment to unity and reconciliation in post-war Europe (Strasbourg was chosen because it is near the border to Germany).
Our guide also explained to us how the European Parliament works, including the ability to amend or reject proposed legislation, approve the EU budget, and influence international agreements. It also plays a vital role in promoting democracy, human rights, and sustainable development within the EU and beyond.
We also went up to the Rooftop of the Parliament (thanks to our guide for the recommendation). You truly have a beautiful view over the city of Strasbourg.
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Our European Excursion to Strasbourg is supported by the state initiative Europe Checks of the Minister for Federal and European Affairs, International Affairs and the Media and
Head of the State Chancellery of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia.
