The key institutions of the European Union are the European Council, the Council of the European Union, the European Parliament, the European Commission, and the Court of Justice. The European Council sets the overall political direction and priorities of the EU. The Council of the European Union represents member states and develops foreign policy. The European Parliament represents EU citizens and approves laws and budgets along with overseeing other institutions. The European Commission proposes new laws and manages programs and budgets. The Court of Justice ensures consistent application of EU law across states and resolves legal disputes.