Council of the European Union

The Council of the European Union is one of the European Union's two main legislative bodies, representing the governments of the member states. Often referred to as the Council, it brings together national ministers in different configurations depending on the policy area under discussion, and its presidency rotates among member states. Together with the European Parliament, the Council adopts EU legislation and the budget, generally acting on proposals from the European Commission. It also coordinates member-state policies and concludes international agreements. On environmental and climate files, the relevant ministerial configuration negotiates and votes on proposed measures. The Council is distinct from the European Council of heads of state or government and from the Council of Europe; it does not propose legislation, which is the Commission's role.