Europa Building, Brussels

The European Parliament is the only EU institution directly elected by European citizens. Its main role is to ensure the democratic legitimacy of the European law.

The National Diet (Japanese: 国会, Hepburn: Kokkai) is Japan's national legislature. Established as the exclusive law-making body, it plays a critical role in the governmental structure by deliberating on national policies and laws. The lower house, known as the House of Representatives (衆議院, Shūgiin), is a key component of the National Diet. Members of this house serve shorter terms, and they have more influence over the legislation. The upper house, called the House of Councillors (参議院, Sangiin), functions as a stabilizing force, reviewing and amending the bills passed by the lower house. It ensures extensive discussion and diligent consideration of legislative matters.