Ikraftträdandet

Ikraftträdandet refers to the moment when a law, regulation or international agreement becomes legally enforceable and binding. It marks the transition from a rule being merely enacted to it having effect in practice for authorities and individuals.

How the onset is determined varies by jurisdiction and type of instrument. In many legal systems, the text of the act itself states the date on which it shall come into force. If no specific date is given, the instrument may enter into force on a specified future date set by the legislature or upon publication, promulgation, or some other defined procedural step. Transitional provisions may delay certain provisions or create a staged introduction to allow adaptation.

Domestic laws and regulations often require publishing in an official gazette or register before they begin to apply. For international treaties, ikraftträdandet can depend on factors such as ratification by participating states, domestic implementing measures, or the treaty’s own stated entry-into-force provisions.

Effects and scope are typically defined in the instrument itself. Once in force, rights, obligations and sanctions described in the text become applicable, subject to any transitional rules or partial applicability. Retroactive effect is generally avoided or narrowly constrained, and any exceptions are spelled out in transitional clauses.

Understanding ikraftträdandet is essential for compliance, as individuals and organizations must adhere to the rules only after they have become legally effective.