The European Parliament

The European Parliament, the only directly elected institution of the European Union, is a unique democratical experience with its unprecedented historical development. Initially, it was designed to introduce a democratic component into the functioning of the European Communities by means of supervisory powers. Then, by maximalist and incrementalist approaches, it has assumed increased roles in the Union to be the co-decision maker.The purpose of this study is to examine the composition, organisation and legislative powers of the European Parliament in the framework of the provisions of the legislation in force and the Treaty of Lisbon. The thesis has four chapters named ?General Knowledge about the European Union and the Historical Development of the European Parliament?, ?The Composition and the Membership of the European Parliament?, ?The Organization and the Working Methods of the European Parliament? and ?The Role of the European Parliament in the Legislative Procedures? respectively.