Book excerpt: The European Yearbook has expanded over the years in keeping with the role played by European institutions compared with national ones. It is an indispensable work of reference for anyone dealing with these institutions, which have become so numerous & varied that no-one can possibly memorise all their acronyms or functions. The European Yearbook provides aids for finding one's way through the labyrinth of these organisations which coordinate a variety of activities in over 20 countries. One of the aids is an 'organisation chart' at the beginning of the documentary section, giving a clear picture of the general situation. A perusal of the many contributions in the volume organisation by organisation, shows the full diversity of the activities which Europe is gradually taking over from national governments, with their consent & financial support. Written in both of the Council of Europe's official languages, English & French, the European Yearbook also contains a general index by subject & name which constitutes a very valuable list of articles & provides direct access to the work's subject matter, regardless of the particular organisation concerned, offering a kind of cross-section of the activities of European organisations.