EU Law
EU Law refers to the body of treaties, regulations, directives, decisions, recommendations, and opinions that have binding legal force in all European Union member states. Here is a detailed overview:
History
Key Features
- Direct Effect and Supremacy: EU law has direct effect, meaning it can be invoked and enforced by individuals in national courts, and it takes precedence over national laws.
- Types of Legislation:
- Regulations: Directly applicable and binding in all member states without the need for national implementing legislation.
- Directives: Set out objectives that member states must achieve but allow flexibility in how these goals are met.
- Decisions: Binding on those to whom they are addressed, whether member states, companies, or individuals.
- Institutional Framework: The European Commission proposes legislation, the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union enact laws, and the European Court of Justice ensures uniform interpretation and application.
Legal Principles
- Proportionality: Actions taken by EU institutions must not exceed what is necessary to achieve the objectives of the Treaties.
- Subsidiarity: Decisions should be made as closely as possible to the citizen, meaning that the EU should act only when objectives cannot be sufficiently achieved by member states.
- Non-Discrimination: Ensures equality among citizens of different member states, particularly in employment and social security.
Impact
The impact of EU Law extends beyond the legal sphere into economic, social, and political realms, harmonizing laws across member states, fostering the single market, and promoting fundamental rights.
External Links
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