Who is primarily responsible for defining the general political directions of the EU?

The European Council plays a crucial role in shaping the long-term strategic agenda and overall political direction of the European Union. It comprises the heads of state or government of EU member countries, along with its President and the President of the European Commission. The European Council is responsible for defining the EU's priorities and key initiatives, as well as setting the broader political framework within which the EU operates.

This body does not engage in the legislative process as directly as the European Parliament or the Council of the European Union but instead focuses on high-level discussions that influence policies, ensuring that the EU's direction aligns with the interests of its member states. Through its summits and meetings, it addresses crucial issues and provides guidance on complex matters that require consensus among leaders, thus steering the EU's political landscape.

In contrast, the European Commission is primarily tasked with proposing legislation and implementing EU policies, while the European Parliament engages in these processes as the representative body of EU citizens. The Council of the European Union, made up of government ministers from each member state, works on legislative matters but does not set the overarching political course. Hence, the European Council’s position as the body responsible for defining the general political directions of the EU is well established.