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Institutional affairs

Find out about the EU's and the Council's institutional set-up and rules

Latest explainers

A montage showing a map of Europe with present EU member states highlighted, the EU flag, an open treaty book with signatures, and a handshake, all surrounded by yellow stars on a blue background.
How EU treaties shaped the Council of the EU and the European Council

How EU treaties shaped the Council of the EU and the European Council

Ponte Vasco da Gama Bridge in Lisbon, at sunset.
Shaping the EU as we know it: the Lisbon Treaty

Shaping the EU as we know it: the Lisbon Treaty

A man and woman wrapped in an EU flag.
How Maastricht changed Europe

How Maastricht changed Europe

Last review: 15 April 2026