European integration is growing more complicated by the day. This glossary explains the meaning of some of the more important words and phrases.

If you have any additions or amendments to suggest to the definitions or the links, please e-mail them to glossary@federalunion.org.uk.

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

O

Objective 1 regions - the poorest areas of the EU, which qualify for most money from the structural funds. (more information)

Ombudsman - an official who has the power to investigate complaints from citizens about the actions of the European Union institutions.

open method of coordination - the idea that Europe-wide policies might be achieved by a series of actions by member states rather than by European legislation.

openness - see transparency.

opt-out - a feature of the treaties by which some policies do not apply to certain member states. It adds to the complexity of the European Union institutions.