The organisational framework of the EU includes, besides its institutions, a number of bodies and entities with advisory, financial and control functions:

• European Committee of the Regions (CoR)
• European Economic and Social Committee (EESC)
• European External Action Service (EEAS)
• European Investment Bank (EIB)
• European Ombudsman
• European Data Protection Supervisor (EDPS)

European Committee of the Regions

The European Committee of the Regions (CdR) is the consultative body composed of members of local and regional authorities that represent, at European level, the interests of the regions.

European Economic and Social Committee

The Economic and Social Committee (ESC) involves the various economic and social interest groups in the implementation of the European Union action, enabling them to provide EU institutions with the points of view of citizens, enterprises and social groups.

European External Action Service (EEAS)

The European External Action Service (EEAS) is the diplomatic service of the Union. As such, its tasks include managing diplomatic relations with non-EU countries and assisting the High Representative of the Union in managing foreign and security policy.

European Investment Bank

The European Investment Bank (EIB) is in charge of financing investments in the interests of the European Union.

European Ombudsman

The European Ombudsman is in charge of investigating cases of possible maladministration by EU institutions and bodies. Complaints may be submitted to the European Ombudsman by EU citizens or residents and EU-based firms.

European Data Protection Supervisor

The European Data Protection Supervisor (EDPS) ensures that EU institutions and bodies respect the privacy rules of European citizens.

European Agencies

European Agencies are specialised offices providing help and advice to the Member States and their citizens, as well as assistance to EU institutions.