Agreement on the Functioning of the European Union

Posted on 17 May 2022

The Agreement on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) is a treaty that defines the functioning of the European Union (EU). It sets out the general principles and objectives of the EU, as well as its internal market, competition policy, and social policy. The TFEU is a key document for anyone interested in the workings of the EU and its impact on its member states.

The TFEU was originally known as the Treaty of Rome, which was signed in 1957. The treaty established the European Economic Community, which aimed to create a common market between its member states. The TFEU has since been amended several times to reflect the changing needs of the EU and its member states.

The TFEU is divided into seven parts, each of which deals with a different aspect of the EU`s functioning. Part One sets out the general principles and objectives of the EU, including the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality. These principles ensure that decisions are taken at the appropriate level of government and that the EU does not overstep its authority.

Part Two deals with the internal market, which aims to ensure the free movement of goods, services, capital, and people between EU member states. This section also includes provisions on competition policy, state aid, and consumer protection.

Part Three sets out the EU`s social policy, including provisions on employment, social protection, and non-discrimination. This section also includes provisions on public health and consumer protection.

Part Four deals with the EU`s monetary policy, including the establishment of the euro as the single currency of the eurozone. This section also sets out the objectives of the European Central Bank and the procedures for managing the eurozone.

Part Five deals with the EU`s external action, including its relations with third countries and international organizations. This section also includes provisions on the EU`s common foreign and security policy.

Part Six deals with the institutional framework of the EU, including the role of the European Parliament, the European Council, and the European Commission. This section also sets out the procedures for decision-making within the EU.

Finally, Part Seven sets out the provisions for the accession of new member states to the EU and the procedures for withdrawing from the EU.

In conclusion, the Agreement on the Functioning of the European Union is a crucial document for anyone interested in understanding the workings of the European Union. It sets out the general principles and objectives of the EU, as well as its policies on the internal market, social policy, monetary policy, external action, and institutional framework. As the EU continues to evolve, the TFEU will continue to be amended and updated to reflect the changing needs of its member states.

Categorized | Uncategorized

Comments are closed.