What is the European Union?

The EU is a political and economic union of 27 European member states. It fosters cooperation and integration among them, aiming to:

  • Promote peace and stability in Europe.
  • Create a single market with free movement of goods, services, people, and capital.
  • Strengthen economic and political ties between member states.
  • Act as a unified voice on the global stage.

What are the main features of the European Union?

  • Supranationalism: EU institutions like the Parliament and Commission have some authority above national governments in specific areas defined by treaties.
  • Shared Sovereignty: Member states cede some decision-making power to the EU in these areas for common goals.
  • Treaty-Based Framework: Founding treaties like the Treaty on European Union (TEU) establish core principles and limitations of the EU.
  • Economic and Political Integration: Creates a single market and fosters cooperation on various policy issues.
  • Dynamic and Evolving: The EU constantly adapts through new treaties, regulations, and court rulings.

Why is the European Union important?

  • Economic Powerhouse: The EU is the world's largest single market and a major trading bloc, influencing global trade and economic policies.
  • Promotes Peace and Stability: The EU's focus on cooperation and shared interests has helped prevent major conflicts between member states.
  • Strengthens Human Rights: The EU promotes democracy, human rights, and the rule of law within its borders and through its international relations.
  • Sets Global Standards: The EU plays a significant role in setting standards for product safety, environmental protection, and labor rights.

How is the European Union applied in practice?

  • Single Market: Businesses can operate freely across member states without customs barriers, boosting economic activity.
  • Common Agricultural Policy (CAP): Supports European farmers and ensures food security.
  • Erasmus+ Program: Promotes student and faculty exchange across member states.
  • Environmental Regulations: Establishes common standards for air and water quality, waste management, and climate change action.

Practiacl example

  • Schengen Area: Allows passport-free travel for citizens of 26 European countries, promoting tourism, business, and personal connections.

Critical comments

  • Democratic Deficit: Critics argue decision-making processes within the EU are too complex and lack transparency.
  • Economic Disparities: The level of economic development varies significantly among member states, creating challenges for integration.
  • Euroscepticism: Some people and political movements in member states oppose further EU integration and question its effectiveness.
  • Migrant Crisis: The EU has faced challenges in developing a unified response to migration issues.
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Law and administration: The best concepts summarized

Law and administration: The best concepts summarized

Table of contents

  • Law
  • Administration
  • Constitutional law
  • State law
  • Public administration
  • Corporate law
  • Business law
  • Legal entities
  • Commercial law
  • Trade law
  • Insolvency law
  • Bankruptcy law
  • Criminal law
  • Criminology
  • European law
  • European Union
  • Family law
  • Inheretence law
  • Matrimonial law
  • International law
  • International public law
  • Public international law
  • Jurisprudence
  • Case law
  • Labor law
  • Social law
  • Legal philosophy
  • History of law
  • Private law
  • Civil law
  • Property law
  • International private law
  • The law of obligations
  • Contract law
  • Tax law
  • Fiscal law
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