The European Chess Union is an independent association which has the exclusive right to organise the various European Chess Championships.

Members are the European national chess federations. The Objects for which the European Chess Union is established are:
(a) to safeguard and further the interest and development of chess within its jurisdiction (as established by the territory of its Members) as well as safeguarding and promoting the interests of its Members
(b) to represent the interests of its Members at FIDE and other international organisations;
(c) to foster a positive framework of friendship and collaboration and generate peaceful relationships between the European Chess Union and its Members within its said jurisdiction;
(d) to provide an organisation for the promotion and participation of chess in all related existing and future activities, tournaments and other competitions and seminars within its said jurisdiction;
(e) to disseminate useful and instructive articles and ideas with respect to chess education;
(f) to raise funds by means of membership subscriptions, fees for services or otherwise for all the purposes and its Objects in such amounts and in such manner as may be authorised by the General Assembly; and
(g) to do all such other lawful things as are helpful to the attainment of the above Objects.