Into the New Millennium: The Evolution of the European Parliament from Consultative Assembly to Co-legislator

This article explores the evolution of the EP’s legislative function both before and after the enforcement of the Amsterdam Treaty. It provides preliminary conclusions how the new Treaty provisions have been applied in the practical political process. Closely linked is the question whether the growing competencies of the EP have had an effect on the support of the European citizenry.... The article closes by focusing on some of the challenges the EP faces at beginning of this Millennium: (possibly) expanding its powers and at the same time enhancing its links with the European citizens