European Parliament Decision-Making Procedures

Content about European Parliament Decision-Making Procedures from the publication “The ABC of European Union law” (2010, European Union) by Klaus-Dieter Borchardt.

An absolute majority of the votes cast is usually sufficient for a decision to be taken. As Parliament increases in importance, however, ever stricter requirements are imposed with regard to MEPs’ attendance. A whole range of decisions may be adopted only if supported by an absolute majority of all Members of Parliament. Finally, any motion of censure against the European Commission must not only be backed by a majority of MEPs but also requires two thirds of the votes cast to be in favour.