General presentation on the EU  

What does the EU do? How do MEPs work in Strasbourg? How does an EU law come into being? And what is the difference between the European Council and the Council of the European Union?

From these and other questions, the participants will get an insight into the European Union and its institutions: which tasks they have and how they work together.

The general presentations on the European Union are offered from Monday to Friday at 11 am and 3 pm (beginning of the presentation) in English, French, Luxembourgish, German and other EU languages upon availability.

• From 15 years old
• From 20-80 people
• Duration: approx. 1 hour

In order to ensure a safe visit for all, we invite you to read and comply with these measures:

• A valid identity physical document (national ID card or passport) is required to access European Parliament buildings. If you registered in advance and you provided your ID document details, you must bring this same document to the Parliament on the day of your visit.
• Photocopies of IDs, ID cards downloaded to mobile phones and driving licenses are not accepted.
• Minors under 14 must be accompanied by an adult.
• All visitors and bags are subject to airport-style security checks before entry. Firearms, explosive or inflammable substances, pepper sprays, sharp items and other objects that could be considered weapons are prohibited. In accordance with national legislation, certain prohibited items may be handed over to the police.
• No trolleys, suitcases, or other large luggage are allowed into the buildings.
• Animals are allowed in the buildings only as trained guides for visually impaired persons or to assist persons with reduced mobility.
• If an access pass has been issued, visitors must visibly wear it whilst in the Parliament buildings.
• Photography and filming are permitted inside the visitor area, but are prohibited in the security area and in the Hemicycle gallery during plenary sessions as well as in restaurants and bars. For more information, please consult the Rules Governing Recordings on the Premises of the European Parliament.
• If the fire alarm goes off, leave the building immediately without running and follow the instructions given by the security staff and evacuation volunteers.
• For any safety emergency, call 33112 from any internal phone.
• Some areas are subject to video surveillance in accordance with the European Parliament Video Protection Policy. 
• If you feel unwell, please stay at home and postpone your visit. We will be happy to welcome you back when you are feeling better.

Last update: 06.2025