When considering the relationship between the three organs of the EU governance system*, it is necessary to examine the image that the EU seeks to give to the European community in at large and to the rest of the world. It is a policy of unity, “cohesion and solidarity”, based on human rights and the rule of law. However, discord is involved in the institutional balance of power that is ensured within the tricameral system. Curtin (), discussing the subject, states that "the picture is one of fragmentation rather than unity, of pieces rather than oneness," highlighting a lack of cohesion within the system. Shapiro says that at all levels of the EU, unelected working groups, committees and agencies play a central role in the decision-making process. Since the creation of most European institutions with the creation of the ECSC in the 1950s, power has shifted. The Commission often acts as a mediator between these two bodies, but it is arguably becoming increasingly accountable to Parliament . The relationships between the three bodies are constantly evolving. Many believe that the evolution of EU structures has occurred in the absence of a clear “blueprint”. Tom Reid (Washington Post) argued that "no one would have deliberately designed a government as complex and as redundant as the EU." act or law. A decision, on the other hand, is an instrument focused on a particular individual/group. The ordinary legislative procedure, used in most policy areas, ensures an equal footing between the three bodies. As part of this procedure...... middle of paper ......the Commission. An agreed proposal is sent to the Council and Parliament, who are responsible for adopting it into law, for a third and final reading. The Council and Parliament share the power to legislate. Parliament can also ask the Commission to propose new laws that it considers appropriate. The European Parliament is also responsible for monitoring and reviewing what other EU bodies do, particularly the Commission, which it can censure as a whole, and reject or approve applications for commissioners. She did so in 2004, regarding a candidate presented by Italy and whom it considered unsuitable. Commissioners, unlike MEPs, are not elected and Parliament is therefore seen as providing democratic control and oversight over the Commission – a role comparable to that played by the UK Parliament in relation to the government..