Topic 1 - Introduction

Question 1

What are the main topics covered in the EU Law module?

Answer 1

• The Treaties and their significance
• The institutions of the European Union
• The courts
• The general principles of EU law
• Free movement of goods
• Services and establishment
• Free movement of capital
• Trade harmonisation
• Competition policy
• Free movement of persons and citizenship
• EU human rights

The topics are structured to progress from foundational concepts to complex areas of law.

Question 2

What does CJEU stand for?

Answer 2

The Court of Justice of the European Union, which includes the Court of Justice and the General Court.

CJEU is the official term for the judicial body of the EU.

Question 3

What is the principle of Supremacy in EU law?

Answer 3

The principle that where there is a conflict between national law and EU law, EU law prevails and national law must be set aside.

This principle is fundamental to ensure uniform application of EU law across member states.

Question 4

Define Direct Effect in the context of EU law.

Answer 4

A principle developed by the ECJ through which EU law creates rights for individuals that can be enforced in national courts.

Direct effect allows individuals to invoke EU law directly in their national legal systems.

Question 5

What are the Four Freedoms guaranteed by the Treaty of Rome?

Answer 5

• Free movement of goods
• Free movement of workers
• Free movement of services
• Free movement of capital

These freedoms are essential for the functioning of the EU internal market.

Question 6

What is the Internal Market in EU Law?

Answer 6

An area established within the EU to eliminate trading barriers between Member States, covering goods, services, workers, and capital.

The internal market is foundational for promoting economic integration among EU member states.

Question 7

What does ECLI stand for?

Answer 7

The European Case Law Identifier, a system created to simplify the citation and consultation of case law from the Court of Justice of the European Union.

ECLI enhances accessibility and reference of EU case law.

Question 8

What is meant by Division of Competences in EU law?

Answer 8

The examination of the division of powers and legislative functions between the EU institutions and the Member States.

This concept is crucial for understanding how EU law is enacted and applied.

Question 9

What are the learning objectives of the EU Law module?

Answer 9

• Place the operation of EU law in its historical context
• Explain general principles such as supremacy and direct effect
• Identify legal sources for the four freedoms
• Understand the concept of abusing EU law
• Assess the balance between fundamental rights and economic freedoms

These objectives guide the expected outcomes for students completing the module.

Question 10

What skills should students demonstrate upon completing the EU Law module?

Answer 10

• Summarize and critically analyze key arguments
• Use appropriate legal terminology and abbreviations
• Find and analyze key primary and secondary sources
• Construct consistent and critical arguments
• Utilize IT for legal research

These skills are essential for professional practice in EU law.

Question 11

What is the significance of the CJEU in EU law?

Answer 11

The judgments of the ECJ are the ultimate authority in the judicial hierarchy of the Member States and shape the EU’s legal order.

The CJEU is pivotal in interpreting EU law and ensuring its uniform application.

Question 12

Fill in the blank: The course examines the balance between _______ and economic freedoms.

Answer 12

fundamental rights

This balance is discussed in key court cases and academic literature.

Question 13

What are the advanced topics covered in the EU Law module?

Answer 13

• Trade harmonisation
• Competition policy
• EU human rights

These topics explore broader regulatory areas within the EU legal framework.

Question 14

What is the core textbook for the EU Law module?

Answer 14

Steiner & Woods EU law (15th edition).

This textbook serves as the primary reference for the course.

Question 15

True or False: EU law is distinct from both national and traditional international law.

Answer 15

True

This distinction is fundamental to understanding the nature of EU law.

Question 16

What are the recommended academic journals for further research in EU law?

Answer 16

• Common Market Law Review (CMLRev)
• European Law Review (ELRev)

These journals publish important articles and case analyses relevant to EU law.