Exhibition
When it was first established in the form of the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC), the European Parliament played a mainly advisory role. Over the years, it has brought about a shift in the institutional balance and control arrangements to increase its powers and budgetary and legislative authority.
Soon after its first direct elections, the members decided to organise themselves into transnational political groups according to their ideological affinities. Over time, these groups have succeeded in making a substantial contribution to Parliament’s operational capacity.
After its first elections by direct universal suffrage in 1979, Parliament drew on its democratic legitimacy, its ability to define its position as an institution and its freedom of deliberation to increase its influence and broaden its areas of responsibility.
As European integration advanced and the Treaties evolved over the years, MEPs began to diversify their activities to make Parliament a major political player. They also pushed for institutional reforms, and Parliament is now actively involved in drafting EU legislation, formulating policies and drawing up its budget.
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The European Parliament is marking 70 years of democracy in action - from its first assembly in 1952 to being stronger than ever during challenging times today.