The term “acquis” refers to the body of European Union (EU) law that has been accumulated over the years. It encompasses all the legislation, treaties, court decisions, and agreements that have been adopted by the EU member states. The acquis is essentially the legal framework that governs the functioning of the EU and its member countries.
One of the key principles of the EU is the idea of integration, where member states work together to create a unified legal and economic system. The acquis plays a crucial role in this process by providing a common set of rules and regulations that all member states must adhere to.
The acquis is made up of various components, including primary law, secondary law, and case law. Primary law consists of the founding treaties of the EU, such as the Treaty on European Union and the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union. These treaties establish the fundamental principles and objectives of the EU.
Secondary law, on the other hand, refers to the legislation that has been adopted by the EU institutions, such as directives, regulations, and decisions. These laws are binding on all member states and are designed to harmonize national laws and ensure a level playing field within the EU.
Case law, also known as jurisprudence, refers to the judgments and decisions of the Court of Justice of the European Union. These rulings interpret and clarify the provisions of the EU treaties and secondary legislation, providing guidance on how they should be applied in practice.
The acquis is constantly evolving and expanding as new laws and regulations are adopted. It covers a wide range of areas, including trade, agriculture, competition, environment, and social policy. Each new member state that joins the EU is required to adopt and implement the acquis in its national legal system.
However, it is important to note that not all EU member states have adopted the entire acquis. Some countries have negotiated certain opt-outs or derogations, allowing them to deviate from certain aspects of the acquis in specific areas.
The acquis is also subject to ongoing review and revision. The EU institutions regularly assess the relevance and effectiveness of existing laws and may propose amendments or new legislation to address emerging challenges and priorities.
In conclusion, the acquis is the body of EU law that forms the basis of the legal framework of the European Union. It is a dynamic and evolving system that provides a common set of rules and regulations for all member states. Understanding the acquis is essential for anyone interested in the functioning and governance of the EU.