Agencies

It has become increasingly common for agencies to be deployed in nation states to fulfil certain governmental functions. The same phenomenon has occurred in the EU, especially since the 1990s. This chapter explores the role played by agencies in the EU. The discussion begins with consideration of the rationale for agencies in nation states and the EU respectively, followed by examination as to how EU agencies have evolved. The focus then turns to classification of EU agencies in the light of their powers and functions, and explication of the legal limits that constrain the powers that can be given to EU agencies. The remainder of the chapter analyses the legal, political, and financial mechanisms for controlling agencies and rendering them accountable. The chapter concludes with discussion as to whether the powers of agencies ought to be extended.