The European Commission, founded in 1958, is the executive branch of the European Union. Headquartered in Belgium, it employs approximately 34,050 people. Its primary function is government administration, representing the EU's overall interests independently of national governments. The Commission proposes legislation for approval by the Council of the European Union and the European Parliament, and manages the EU budget and policy programs across various sectors including agriculture, fisheries, and research, working in collaboration with member state authorities.