First 10 Pages Flashcards
What is the European Union?
The EU is a supranational, political and economic union which consists of a number of states in the continent of europe. They are referred to as member states.
What is the EU often referred to as?
The EU is often referred to as a Sui Generis (William 2012). (A unique, political and legal entity)
How has EU Law developed?
The development of EU law has been gradual, evolving alongside the growth of the European Union itself. Rather than emerging fully formed in the 1950s, EU law has progressed incrementally through treaty amendments, new treaties, the addition of member states, and the transfer of competences from national to supranational level.
Why did the world jump to form institutions like the EU
The end of World War II marked a pivotal moment in European history, with the continent reeling from the devastation and atrocities of the conflict, including the Holocaust. This period witnessed a significant shift towards ideas of European integration and internationalism.
The two conferences that established a certain committee
Moscow Conference of 1943, Yalta Conference of 1944
What is this committee called?
The European Advisory Committee
What treaty made signifiant progress to the creation of the EU and what year?
Treaty of Rome 1958
This Treaty marked the inception of what?
European Economic Community (EEC)
Who were the original members of teh EEC
Belgium, France, West Germany, Luxembourg, Italy, The Netherlands
In what years did the EEC expand and how many members were added in instalments?
Between 1973-2013, 22 members
What members joined at the beginning and in what year?
Denmark, Ireland, Uk 1973
What was the intention of the Treaty of Rome?
A pivotal aspect of the Treaty of Rome was the creation of a customs union among its member states. For those unfamiliar with international trade law, a customs union entails preferential trade arrangements within the union, wherein the union collectively manages external trade agreements. This results in lower trade barriers within the union compared to external trade partners
What a significant milestone for European integration in the 80’s (give and exact date)
Signing of the Schengen Agreement
The aim of this agreement?
This agreement aimed to facilitate the free movement of people within a designated area known as the Schengen Zone, eliminating border checks and passport controls among member states. This initiative was crucial in solidifying the principle of free movement within the European Economic Community and laying the groundwork for the Single Market.
What treaty was signed in the 90s?
Maastricht Treaty, 1992 was signed and came into force in 1993
What was its aim?
established the European Union, replacing the Buropean Economic Community. It aimed to expand the EU’s regulatory competences and territorial reach. Plans for enlargement included Cyprus and Malta, as well as several newly established post-Soviet states in Eastern Europe, such as Poland, Lithuania, Romania, and Ukraine.
What did the Maastricht Treaty do?
It formally established the European Union, replacing the i Economic Community.
What countries were included in the plans of enlargement for the Maastricht Treaty
Plans for enlargement included Cyprus and Malta, as well as several newly established post-Soviet states in Eastern Europe, such as Poland, Lithuania, Romania, and Ukraine.
When was the Treaty of Lisbon signed
agreed upon in 2007 and entering into force in 2009,
What was the Treaty’s intention?
It merged the EU’s three pillars, created the position of President of the European Council, and allowed for the establishment of a single union with legal personality.
What did the Treaty of Lisbon aim to do?
To enhance the functionality and cohesion of the European Union.
What countries joined after the Treaty of Lisbon and in what years?
Bulgaria and Romania 2007, Cyprus and Malta in 2008, Slovakia in 2009, Estonia in 2011, Latvia in 2014, and Lithuania in
2015. The Treaty of Lisbon’s reforms played a significant role in shaping the institutional landscape of the European Union and facilitating its expansion
What is EU accession?
the formal process through which a state joins the European Union, becoming a full-fledged member state. Fundamentally, this process involves adhering to and becoming a party to the original founding treaties of the European Union, as well as subsequent treaty agreements that have amended these treaties over time.
What are the technicalities of joining the EU?
It requires a state to sign onto and comply with the founding treaties.
Where is the criteria for EU membership outlined? What year?
Copenhagen Criteria 1993
When were these criteria put in place?
Before a period of rapid enlargement
What is the first criteria to become and EU member?
Firstly, the state must be considered a “European country.”
2nd criteria to join the EU?
The second criterion for EU membership is that the aspiring state must be a democracy.
I
‘This means that it must operate as a democratic state, characterized by free and fair elections. A theocracy, dictatorship, or any form of totalitarian regime is not compatible with EU membership. The requirement for democracy ensures that member states uphold fundamental democratic principles and values.
3rd criteria for joining the EU?
Additionally, aspiring member states must have a functioning market economy. While some may view this criterion as imposing capitalist ideology, it aligns with the economic framework of the EU. Joining the EU’s single market necessitates having a market economy, as a command economy would not integrate well within the EU’s economic structure.
4th Criteria for joining the EU?
Respect for the rule of law and membership.
undamental human rights is another essential criterion for EU
This requirement underscores the EU’s commitment to upholding legal standards and protecting human rights across its member states
Final criteria for joining the EU?
Lastly, aspiring member states must be willing and able to adopt and implement EU law.
What is the adoption of EU Law called?
This criterion, sometimes referred to as the “acquis communautaire,” is crucial for ensuring alignment with EU regulations and standards. It is arguably the most significant element of the accession process because meeting the other criteria is often a prerequisite for this aspect.
Essentially, it ensures that member states are committed to integrating into the EU’s legal framework.
What happens when the Copenhagen Criteria is met?
This typically involves a period of informal negotiations with existing EU member states.
Following these negotiations, the European Council holds a unanimous vote to initiate the formal
negotiation process.
What does the negotiation process focus primarily on?
The negotiation process primarily focuses on the candidate state’s ability to adhere to EU law, known as the acquis communautaire. The acquis communautaire encompasses 35 separate policy
chapters, each of which is subject to extensive negotiation to ensure compliance with the
intricate and detailed framework of EU law.
What happens after it is determined the state can comply with EU Law?
a formal accession treaty is drawn up. This treaty outlines the terms and
conditions of the candidate state’s membership in the European Union, including any transitional arrangements or specific commitments required for accession
When was the withdrawal process included in the EU treaties?
until the Treaty of Lisbon, which introduced Article 50.
What does Article 50(1) state?
Article 50(1) states that any member state may decide to withdraw from the EU in accordance
with its own constitutional requirements. Upon making this decision, the withdrawing state must notify the European Council of its intention.
What happens after the EU is notified a member state wants to leave?
The EU then proceeds to negotiate and conclude an
agreement with the withdrawing state, outlining the arrangements for its withdrawal and
considering the framework for its future relationship with the Union.
What Article is the agreement negotiated with regards to?
This agreement is
negotiated in accordance with Article 218(3) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European
Union and is concluded on behalf of the Union by the Council, acting by qualified majority, with the consent of the European Parliament.
What does Article 50(2) elaborate on?
the negotiation process, emphasizing the importance of reaching a
future relationship agreement with the withdrawing member state. This aims to ensure that the
withdrawal occurs with some form of negotiated agreement, rather than a disorderly exit.
What does Article 50(3) specify for?
specifies the timeline for withdrawal, stating that the treaties shall cease to apply to
the withdrawing state from the date of entry into force of the withdrawal agreement or, failing
that, after two years of negotiations. However, this period can be extended unanimously by the
European Council in agreement with the withdrawing member state.
What happens to a member state’s representative during a withdrawal process?
during the withdrawal process, the withdrawing member state’s representative in
the European Council or Council des not participate in discussions or decisions concerning it.
Describe the transition period of withdrawal from the EU
For a certain
period after withdrawal, there are no immediate changes in how goods and services are
regulated, or in terms of the free movement of people, among other aspects. However, during this
transition period, the withdrawing state no longer has political representation or participation in
the EU’s lawmaking processes
Where is the institutional framework of the EU outlined?
Article 14 of the Treaty on European Union
What does this article state?
This article states that the EU’s institutions aim to promote its values, advance its objectives,
serve the interests of its citizens and member states, and ensure the consistency, effectiveness,
and continuity of its policies and actions.
What EU institutions are listed in article 13?
European Parliament, EU Council, Council of the European Union, The European Commission, The Court of Justice of the European Union, The European Central Bank, The European Court of Auditors
What does the European Parliament stand out as?
The European Parliament stands out as the only institution within the European Union that is
directly elected by the citizens of the member states.
What is the primary function of the European Parliament?
include holding the European Commission and its President accountable,
which is vital for ensuring democratic legitimacy and accountability within the EU’s political system.
Where are the rules and powers of the EU Parliament outlined?
Article 14 of the Treaty on European Union
Article 14 key provisions?
The European Parliament exercises legislative and budgetary functions jointly with the
Council.
2. It performs political control and consultation functions as defined in the treaties.
3. The European Parliament elects the President of the European Commission, a significant mechanism for holding the Commission accountable.
4. The composition of the European Parliament is determined by a decision adopted by
unanimity in the European Council, initiated by the European Parliament and with its
consent. This decision respects the principles outlined in the first paragraph of Article 14.
5. Members of the European Parliament are elected for a term of five years through direct, universal suffrage, in free and secret ballots. This ensures representation of citizens without discrimination.
6. The European Parliament elects its President and other officers from among its members.
Describe representation in the EU Parliament
‘Representation in the European Parliament is established on a proportional basis, with smaller
member states having fewer seats and larger member states having more. However, there are
minimum and maximum thresholds set by Article 14. The minimum threshold ensures that each member state has at least six members, while the maximum threshold restricts any member state
from having more than 96 seats
How is the EU Parliament president elected?
The President of the European Parliament is elected from among the Members of the European
Parliament (MEPs). As outlined in Article 14 of the Treaty on European Union (TEU), the
President serves for half of a parliamentary term, which is typically two and a half years. Since
the parliamentary term is five years, there are two Presidents per term.
Describe the EU Parliament President’s role?
The President of the European Parliament serves as the primary representative of the Parliament
in negotiations and discussions with other EU institutions. This includes engagements with the
European Commission, the Council, and other bodies. In these negotiations and conversations,
the President plays a crucial role in advocating for the Parliament’s positions and interests.
What does the EU Parliament president have the authority to do?
Additionally, the President of the European Parliament has the authority to approve or give the
green light to documentation on behalf of the Parliament. This responsibility underscores the
President’s role in ensuring the Parliament’s voice is effectively represented in EU decision-making processes.
Describe the EU parliaments power over the EU’s budget
This authority reflects the Parliament’s direct
accountability to and election by the citizens of the EU member states. Given that the budget
consists of taxpayer funds contributed by member states, it makes sense for the Parliament, as a
directly elected body, to have substantial influence over financial decisions.
Where is the process for adopting and establishing the EU budget outlined?
Article 314 of the Treaty
on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU).
Describe the overview of the pressure of adopting and establishing the EU budget
the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU). Here’s a basic overview of the procedure:
1. The European Commission drafts a provisional EU budget.
2. The provisional budget is sent to both the Council of the European Union and the
European Parliament.
3. The Council adopts a position on the budget and communicates it to the Parliament.
4. The budget undergoes several stages within the Parliament, including review by the
Parliamentary budget committee.
5. If the Parliament agrees to the budget, it is adopted as the official EU budget. However, if
the Parliament rejects it, the process must start anew, with the Commission submitting a
new draft budget along with relevant amendments.
The EU Parliament is granted what power from Article 234?
the ability to hold the European Commission to account.
According to this article, if a motion of censure on the activities of the Commission is tabled
before the Parliament,
What procedure must be followed if a motion of censure on the activities of the commission is tabled before Parliament?
The Parliament shall not vote on the motion until at least three days after it has been tabled.
2. The vote on the motion of censure must be conducted openly.
If the motion of censure is carried by a two-thirds majority of the votes cast, representing a majority of the component members of the European Parliament, the members of the Commission shall resign as a body.
4. Additionally, the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy shall resign from the duties carried out in the Commission.
5. The members of the Commission shall remain in office and continue to deal with current business until they are replaced in accordance with Article 17 of the TEU.
6. The term of office of the members appointed to replace them shall expire on the date when the term of office of the resigned Commission members would have expired.
What does a motion of censure against the Commission result in?
It results in the resignation of the Commission as a whole. This power underscores the Parliament’s role in ensuring accountability and oversight within the EU institutional framework, making it a crucial and influential actor in European governance
What does Article 15 outline?
Article 15 of the Treaty on European Union outlines the powers and functions of the European Council, describing it as one of the key political institutions of the European Union. Essentially, this means that the Council has the authority to direct the policy of the EU, determining the overarching political directions and priorities for the Union’s development.
Describe the key aspects of the European Council’s operation
Firstly, it
establishes the composition of the Council and the frequency of its meetings, which occur at least twice every six months. The Council may convene special meetings as necessary, chaired by its president.
Moreover, the European Council is responsible for electing its president, who serves a term of two and a half years, renewable once. The president facilitates the Council’s work, ensures continuity, and fosters cohesion and consensus. They also report to the European Parliament after
each meeting
What does the elected president of the European Council have to do ?
the elected president represents the EU exclusively, relinquishing their role as a
representative of their member state. This underscores the EU’s supranational character and the
president’s focus on advancing the Union’s interests.
What article describes the role and function of the Council of the European Union?
Article 16 of the Treaty on European Union (TEU) delves into the intricate powers and functions entrusted to the Council of the European Union,
Main role of the Council of the EU?
It is pivotal in representing the diverse interests of member states. The Council’s responsibilities encompass a wide array of legislative, budgetary, policy-making, and coordinating functions, each contributing to the overall
governance and decision-making processes of the European Union (EU).
Legislative and budgetary function of the Council of the EU?
Together, they work to enact laws, approve budgets, and shape EU policies in various domains, ranging from economic governance to
environmental protection.
Policy making and coordination responsabilités of the Council of the EU?
This entails formulating EU
policies, setting strategic objectives, and coordinating actions among member states to achieve
common goals. By engaging in policy debates and negotiations, the Council strives to address
pressing challenges facing the EU, such as migration, security, and economic stability, while
upholding the principles of democracy, solidarity, and subsidiarity.
Composition and représentation task of the Council of the EU?
attend Council meetings to participate in
discussions, negotiate agreements, and cast votes on behalf of their governments. The principle
of collective decision-making ensures that each member state has a voice in shaping EU policies
and legislation, regardless of its size or population.
Voting mechanism of the Council of the EU?
Decisions within the Council are typically made through a qualified majority voting system,
whereby a specified threshold of member states and population must support a proposal for it to
be approved. However, the treaties allow for variations in the voting procedure, depending on the nature of the decision and its impact on member states’ interests. In certain cases, unanimity may
be required, especially concerning sensitive issues such as taxation, foreign policy, or constitutional matters
Describe proportional representation in the Council of the EU.
The Council’s voting system incorporates the principle of proportionality to ensure fair representation and balance among member states. Larger states, with larger populations, hold
more voting weight compared to smaller states, but the system strives to maintain a balance that
respects the sovereignty and equality of all member states. This proportional representation
underscores the EU’s commitment to democratic governance and consensus-building among its diverse membership
Policy areas under the Council’s purview?
Employment and social policy
2. Transport
- Justice
- Environment
- Education
- Economic affairs
- Competitiveness
- Agriculture and fisheries
- Foreign affairs
- General affairs
Describe the presidency of the Council
presidency of the Council rotates among all member states, with each state holding the
position for a six-month term. Consequently, there are two presidents per year. During its
presidency, a member state has the authority to set the policy agenda for the duration of its term.
For instance, if France holds the presidency, it determines the agenda for the six months it is in
control. This includes deciding which policy areas will be prioritized for discussion and action
within the Council. For example, if France choses to focus on justice during its presidency, the
Council’s configuration during that period will revolve around issues of legislative and budgetary
authority pertaining to justice matters.