What does the European Council President do?

President of the European Council. Sounds good, right? But not just anyone is qualified for the job… Since December 2024, this top job has been in the hands of António Costa, former Prime Minister of Portugal. But how is the President of the European Council elected? And what’s his role? Let’s walk together to his office, and I’ll fill you in on the way: how’s he’s voted in, the key skills required, how this position relates to the three other top EU jobs – including that of European Commission President – and what his key responsibilities are, including building unity and representing the EU on the world stage. Don’t miss the latest news about President Costa. Visit our channel to stay up to date –    / eucouncil   ----------------------- 🔔Subscribe -    / eucouncil   ----------------------- Follow us: ➡️Instagram - instagram.com/eucouncil ➡️Facebook - facebook.com/eucouncil ➡️X - x.com/eucouncil ----------------------- Timestamps: 00:00 Who is António Costa? 00:24 How is the President of the European Council chosen? 00:55 What makes a good candidate? 01:25 The ‘Big Four’ EU roles 01:38 How long does the President serve? 01:58 What does the President of the European Council do? 02:21 Chairing EU summits and decision-making 02:33 Representing the EU on the world stage 02:55 A tough but important job