European Parliamentary Research Service (EPRS) 

The European Parliament's in-house research service and think tank.

Empowering through knowledge

EPRS’ mission is to provide Members of the European Parliament, and where appropriate parliamentary committees, with independent, objective and authoritative analysis of, and research on, policy issues relating to the European Union, in order to assist them in their parliamentary work.

EPRS provides a comprehensive range of products and services, backed by specialist internal expertise and knowledge sources in all policy fields, so empowering Members and committees through knowledge and contributing to the Parliament’s effectiveness and influence as an institution. EPRS also supports and promotes parliamentary outreach to the wider public.

Support for members 

    

Research for Members

EPRS produces a comprehensive range of content-rich and easy-to-read publications on major EU policies, issues and legislation. It also answers requests for research and analysis from MEPs and their staff.

Legislative Train

The Legislative Train Schedule animated tool monitors progress on the main legislative files in the five-year-term of the current European Parliament.

EU Legislation in Progress

‘EU Legislation in progress’ briefings analyse the progress of all substantial legislative proposals at each stage of the legislative procedure.

Topical Digests

Topical digests provide fast access to the most pertinent and up-to-date publications on European Union policy issues.

Support for the policy cycle 

Impact Assessment and European Added Value

Before parliamentary committees discuss proposals, EPRS provides an initial appraisal of the quality of the European Commission's impact assessments. EPRS also analyses the potential benefits of future action by the European Union through 'Cost of Non-Europe reports' in policy areas where common action at European level could benefit citizens.

Scrutiny and Oversight of the Executive

Before MEPs discuss a proposal, EPRS provides information on the implementation and effectiveness of EU law and policies in practice. EPRS also monitors European Council delivery on the commitments made in its meetings, as well as analysing performance of its various responsibilities either in law or based on intergovernmental agreements.

Assessment of Science and Technology Options

STOA (Science and Technology Options Assessment), led by a panel of MEPs, undertakes scientific and technological assessment and analysis on emerging policy issues and trends.

Analysis of Global Trends

EPRS identifies, tracks and analyses long- and medium-term global trends, which may affect the European Union.

    

Library

Established in 1953, the library operates in Brussels, Luxembourg and Strasbourg, providing Parliament with newspapers, journals, books and e-books, a comparative law library and a historical library.

    

Citizens enquiries

Want to know about the Parliament's activities or EU issues? All EU citizens are entitled to send in a request for information.