The Euratom Treaty endows ESA with legal personality and financial autonomy, enabling it to make independent decisions on matters within its remit. In accordance with Art. 53, the Agency operates independently but under the supervision of the European Commission.
The European Commission, in its supervisory role has four prerogatives:
- issuing ‘directives’
- a right of veto over ESA’s decisions
- adoption of ESA budget
- appointment of the Director General