The influence of the European states in the Council of European Union and the Lisbon treaty changes

This thesis analyzes the influence of European countries in the Council of European Union. Firstly, it presents specific features of this main decision-making body of EU, then introduces the sources of power of the member states, particularly the voting power. In connection with the Lisbon treaty having come into force the thesis presents its impacts on the power distribution in the Council, on efficiency and equity. Lisbon treaty improves the efficiency, however the equity will suffer. Finally, it considers the impact of future enlargement on the power distribution and sustainability of the voting system