EURecht

EURecht is the term used in German-language contexts to denote the body of law governing the European Union. It encompasses the legal rules that regulate the powers and activities of EU institutions, the relationship between the EU and its member states, and the rights and obligations of individuals and companies within the Union.

Its sources are divided into primary and secondary law. Primary EU law consists of the Treaties that establish the EU's competences and institutions. Secondary law includes regulations, which are directly applicable in all member states; directives, which set objectives to be transposed into national law; and decisions binding on those to whom they are addressed. The Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) interprets EU law and settles disputes, complemented by general principles of EU law.

EURecht has primacy over inconsistent national law, and in the event of a conflict, EU rules prevail. Direct effects and state liability may enable individuals to rely on EU law before national courts. National courts have a duty to apply EU law and to refer questions to the CJEU for a preliminary ruling when interpretation is needed.

It covers areas such as the internal market, competition, consumer protection, environment, social policy, and justice and home affairs. The content is continually developed through new regulations, directives, and CJEU jurisprudence. Enforcement mechanisms include infringement proceedings by the European Commission and remedies through national courts and the CJEU.

EURecht is studied in law faculties and by policy makers across the EU, and it informs national legislation, business practices, and individual rights. It also interacts with national constitutions to balance integration with domestic legal orders.