Evrópuþingið

Evrópuþingið is the Icelandic term for the European Parliament. It is the directly elected parliamentary institution of the European Union. The European Parliament, along with the Council of the European Union and the European Commission, makes up the legislative branch of the EU. Its primary functions include scrutinizing other EU institutions, debating and passing EU legislation, and approving the EU budget. Members of the European Parliament, known as MEPs, are elected by citizens of the EU member states every five years. The number of MEPs from each country is roughly proportional to its population. The Parliament sits in Strasbourg, France, for plenary sessions, while committee meetings and some plenary sessions are held in Brussels, Belgium. Luxembourg City also hosts some parliamentary services. The European Parliament plays a significant role in shaping EU policy and representing the interests of European citizens. Its legislative powers have grown over time, making it an increasingly influential body within the EU's political system.