Freizügigkeit

Freizügigkeit, a German term often translated as "freedom of movement" or "free movement," is a fundamental principle within the European Union and is also a concept found in Swiss law. It encompasses the right of EU citizens to travel, live, work, and study in any other EU member state. This right is enshrined in the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) and is considered one of the cornerstones of European integration. The principle aims to foster economic integration, cultural exchange, and personal liberty among member states.

In the context of the EU, Freizügigkeit allows individuals to move across borders without requiring visas or work permits. While there are certain conditions and limitations, such as the need to be economically active or have sufficient resources to support oneself, the general principle is one of open access. This right extends to family members of EU citizens as well, regardless of their nationality. The concept also applies to the free movement of capital, services, and goods, forming the broader framework of the EU's internal market.

Switzerland also has its own concept of Freizügigkeit, particularly in relation to its bilateral agreements with the EU. These agreements grant Swiss citizens similar rights to move and work within the EU and vice versa, though the specifics differ from the direct EU citizen rights. The principle of Freizügigkeit is a dynamic area, continually shaped by jurisprudence and policy developments within the EU and Switzerland.