The EU Explained
What the Union is, what it does, and why it exists in the first place.
Read the overview →European Union · Citizenship & Rights
Understanding the EU. Belonging in it.
A clear, independent guide to how the European Union works, what it means for your rights as a citizen — and why it matters, specifically, if you're LGBT.
Available in
English
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Start Here
Six ways into the Union
Short, plain-language sections — each one links out to the fuller resources in the library.
EU Institutions
Parliament, Commission, Council and Court — who does what.
Meet the institutions →How Decisions Are Made
From proposal to national law — tracing a decision through the EU.
Follow the process →Your Rights
Citizenship, free movement, electoral rights and how to use them.
Know your rights →Why This Matters for LGBT People
Non-discrimination, Article 21 of the Charter, and freedom of movement.
See why it matters →Democracy & Elections
How free and fair elections connect EU, national and local level.
Understand the vote →Library
Resource Library
Glossary companion: 10 EU terms explained simply
Source: EU4LGBT Resource Hub
A short companion piece to the site Glossary, for anyone new to how the EU talks about itself.
Read more →Non-discrimination and Article 21: a starter guide
Source: EU4LGBT Resource Hub
What Article 21 of the Charter actually prohibits, and where it does and doesn’t apply.
Read more →How European Parliament elections work
Source: European Parliament
Proportional representation, national timetables, and what your MEP actually does.
Read more →Charter of Fundamental Rights · Article 21
“Any discrimination based on… sex, race, colour, ethnic or social origin… sexual orientation shall be prohibited.”Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, Article 21
Take Action
Ways to engage with the EU
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Public consultations
Give input before new EU laws are drafted.
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European Citizens' Initiative
Ask the Commission to propose new legislation.
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Petitions to Parliament
Raise an issue directly with elected MEPs.
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Complaints to the Ombudsman
Report maladministration by an EU institution.
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