(can't reply directly to mrmanner, so adding this here) Formally, yes, the Council represents democratically elected governments, and obviously people have he

(can't reply directly to mrmanner, so adding this here) Formally, yes, the Council represents democratically elected governments, and obviously people have heard of their national politicians. But that doesn't mean it makes the EU democratic. Some things to think about: - When was the last time, if ever, you considered voting against someone at your national level because of how they might vote in the EU council? - How much do you hear about EU council votes in the media, vs national parliamentary votes? (the OP is relatively unusual IMO) The Commission is definitely undemocratic. But it has less power than many believe. It has the right to make proposals, but no power over whether they get adopted. It's more of a civil service in many ways. In my view, the council is the structure that has the most power in the EU. And the national politicians who operate it are content that it remains avenue for back-room deals whose results they can blame on the Commission, rather than being accountable to an electorate.