The committee aims to represent the voice of local government to the EU institutions and its members are drawn from municipal and regional authorities in the 15 member states.

It was set up by the Maastricht Treaty amid concerns that the public was being left behind in the EU's quick evolution and its remit was extended by the Amsterdam Treaty.

The European Commission and the Council of Ministers have to consult the committee on any activity which could have repercussions at regional level, specifically in areas such as infrastructure, health, education, employment and social policy, the environment and transport.

Like the other big consultative body, Ecosoc, the Committee gives opinions but does not have any formal powers.