EU information handbook, 2002. 15th ed.

Book abstract:

The 'EU Information Handbook' is produced annually by the EU Committee of the American Chamber of Commerce and is now in its fifteenth edition. The 2002 version offers an immense amount of information on the workings of the European Union: from the function, structure and staff of the Community institutions to details on non-governmental organisations and research sources within and outside the European Union.

This latest edition includes all structural and personnel changes with the European Commission and Council Secretariats and the chapter on the European Parliament has been completely updated, introducing for the first time contact details for all 626 MEPs. The handbook also covers the Economic and Social Committee, the Committee of the Regions, the expert advisory groups, specialised services linked to the European Commission, financial institutions and European agencies.

Keeping apace with the development of the European Union the handbook also focuses on the enlargement of the organisation to Central and Eastern European and Mediterranean countries. It provides statistical information on these countries as well as a brief summary of the nature of their relationship with the European Union. Contacts for some 50 diplomatic missions and delegations around Europe are included.

The close relationship between the United States of the America and the European Union is also covered with an explanation of the role and functions of the US government organs as well as the personnel and structural changes that the new US administration has ushered in.

There are also two extensive chapters on international organisations and non-governmental organisations as well as a chapter on information sources which includes on-line sources and sources within the Member States.

The format of the guide makes it easy to use and it will be a handy companion for anyone trying to find their way around the workings of the European labyrinth.