The European Commission is at the heart of EU policymaking. However, over the past 15-20 years, its position has been challenged due to the growing influence of the European Council, the increased powers of the European Parliament, and the introduction of European agencies. This has led some observers to believe that the Commission's role and influence are diminishing. However, other observers argue that the Commission remains a highly significant institution. Policy Preparation Inside...

Discover the rich military and recreational history of Southport, Oak Island, and Bald Head Island. Southport, Oak Island, and Bald Head Island are coastal North Carolina communities. History abounds in this area, settled by the Smith brothers in the late 1700s. A century later, Fort Caswell was built on Oak Island and used for Confederate defense. Two of North Carolina's historic lighthouses grace the beaches of the area. River steamer routes flowed through here until 1925, exporting and ...