1. What is the function of the Presidency of the Council of the European Union? The member state holding the Presidency (the presiding country):
- coordinates between the EU member states in the Council of the European Union. The presiding country draws up the timetable, organises meetings at all levels, brokers compromises among the member states, and guides decision-making; - represents the Council in the other EU institutions, especially the European Parliament and the European Commission; - represents the EU externally. The Presidency, working with the European Commission, acts on the EU’s behalf in relations with international organisations and third countries. It organises meetings as part of political dialogue with third countries, such as the EU summits with China and Russia; - is the EU’s face to the world and has to respond to political developments as they arise. When important international events or crises occur, the member states expect the presiding country to respond by taking initiatives on the EU’s behalf. 2. When is the Dutch EU Presidency? The Netherlands holds the EU Presidency from 1 July to 31 December 2004. It takes over from Ireland and, at the end of its six-month Presidency, will hand the baton to Luxembourg. 3. Why does the Netherlands hold the EU Presidency? One of the member states always presides over the Council of the European Union. Each one does it for six months in rotation according to an agreed timetable. The Netherlands last held the Presidency in 1997. 4. What will be the main themes of the Dutch EU Presidency? The Netherlands is focusing on five themes: EU enlargement, the EU’s long-term economic strength, its internal and external security, a balanced multiyear EU budget, and an effective role for the EU in the world. 5. Where are Council meetings being held during the Dutch EU Presidency? All formal Council meetings are being held in Brussels or Luxembourg. This includes the two meetings of the European Council - the heads of state and government. Many informal ministerial meetings will be held in the Netherlands. 6. What is the idea behind the Dutch EU Presidency logo? For information about the Dutch EU presidency logo, click here. |