a parliament whose members are elected by the citizens of the EU (=the European Union) . Its members are called Euro MPs or MEPs. Legislative assembly of the European Union (EU). Inaugurated in 1958 as the Common Assembly, the European Parliament originally consisted of representatives selected by the national parliaments of member countries. Beginning in 1979, members of the Parliament, who now number more than 700, were elected by direct universal suffrage to terms of five years. The number of members per country varies depending on population. The Parliament's leadership is shared by a president and 14 vice presidents, elected for 30-month terms. The EU Council of Ministers, which represents the member states, consults the Parliament, which is empowered to discuss whatever matters it wishes. The Parliament's powers were expanded with passage of the Maastricht Treaty (1993). Although it has veto power in most areas relating to economic integration and budgetary policy, it remains subordinate to the Council of Ministers and does not function with the authority of a national legislature such as the U.S. Congress or the British House of Commons
The EU's "public forum": Can veto legislation in certain policy areas and can amend proposals for legislation
composed of 625 members (MEPs) elected by direct universal suffrage every five years in all EU Member States Since 1992, it has acquired legislative powers under the co-decision procedure, which allow it to amend and veto proposals in negotiation with the Council
The 626-member legislative branch of the European Union Representation is determined by population of member-countries, and is based on five-year terms
The principal deliberative and supervisory institution of the European Union Home Page