The institutional framework of the European Economic Area (EEA) consists of two pillars – thus often referred to as the “two-pillar structure”.

The European Union (EU) and its institutions constitute the first pillar (joint bodies), while the EEA/EFTA States (Liechtenstein, Iceland, Norway) and its own institutions constitute the second pillar (EEA/EFTA bodies). Between these two pillars, the joint EEA bodies are located. Through these joint EEA bodies, the 30 EEA Member States (27 EU Member States and the three EEA/EFTA States, Liechtenstein, Iceland, and Norway) jointly carry out the execution and development of the EEA.

Responsibility for content lies with the EEA Coordination Unit .