The European Union influences the lives of all people - whether they are political science students who must pass this mandatory module, or ordinary citizens wondering how the monetary policy of the European Central Bank affects their savings. Both students and savers share a sense of wonder about the diversity of European organizations and their ability to shape policy. Olaf Leisse provides clarity. He explains the tasks and functions of major organizations such as the European Council, the European Commission, the European Parliament, and the European Court of Justice in an easily understandable way, showing how they shape economic and monetary policy, competition and subsidy policy, foreign and security policy, agricultural and environmental policy, and education policy for the 500 million people in the 28 countries that are members of the European Union. After reading this book, many decisions in this large community will become clearer to you.