What does the Council of the EU primarily handle?

The Council of the EU primarily handles the adoption of new legislation, which is a core function of this institution. The Council works alongside the European Parliament and takes on the role of a legislative authority within the EU's framework, scrutinizing proposed legislation, negotiating terms, and ultimately voting on laws that affect member states and EU citizens.

In the legislative process, the Council of the EU is composed of representatives from the member states' governments. It operates through various configurations depending on the subject matter being discussed, ensuring that each country is represented. This collaborative approach is essential for addressing diverse interests and achieving consensus on legislation that impacts the entire EU.

While setting the EU budget, negotiating treaties, and proposing new policies are significant activities within the broader scope of EU governance, they fall under different competencies and may involve additional institutions such as the European Commission or the European Parliament. The Council's primary legislative function aligns with its role in shaping and enacting laws, making the selection of adopting new legislation the most accurate representation of its primary responsibilities.