201424EU

201424EU is commonly understood as Directive 2014/24/EU on public procurement and concessions, a European Union legal instrument adopted in 2014 that governs how public authorities award contracts for works, supplies, and services within the EU. It repealed the previous 2004/18/EC directive and aimed to harmonize procurement rules across member states to enhance transparency, competition, and the internal market. The directive sets the framework for how contracting authorities conduct procurement procedures, including advertising requirements and the evaluation of bids, and promotes the use of digital and cross-border processes where appropriate.

Scope and key provisions: The directive applies to public contracts above EU thresholds awarded by contracting authorities and certain entities within EU member states. It prescribes standard procedures for awarding contracts, such as the open and restricted procedures, competitive dialogue, and negotiated procedures with or without publication. It requires that procurements be conducted in a transparent, non-discriminatory, and proportionate manner, with clear award criteria and opportunities for participation by companies from other member states. It introduces provisions to facilitate electronic procurement, encourage framework agreements and dynamic purchasing systems, and provides rules on pre-qualification, tender evaluation, contract performance, and remedies. The directive distinguishes public procurement from utilities and concessions, placing different rules on separate instruments.

Implementation and impact: Member states were instructed to transpose the directive into national law by a specified deadline, with the aim of reducing red tape and enabling broader cross-border participation in public contracts. It has shaped national procurement regimes, influencing how governments, regional authorities, and other public bodies procure goods, services, and works. While it standardizes core processes, certain procurements—such as those in defense, security, or specific social and healthcare contexts—may be subject to exemptions or tailored national rules.