Irányelv

Irányelv is a legal instrument used in the European Union to establish objectives that member states must achieve, while leaving to national authorities the choice of means and method to reach those goals. The term is the Hungarian translation of “directive.”

Key features of an irányelv include its binding nature as to the result to be achieved, combined with flexibility in the implementation process at the national level. It sets end goals and regulatory outcomes, but specifies only the necessary standards, leaving legislatures in each member state to transpose the directive into national law within a defined deadline. If a member state fails to transpose or properly implement the directive, the European Commission can initiate infringement procedures, potentially culminating in judgments by the Court of Justice of the European Union.

Regarding legal effect, directives are not generally directly applicable in the same way as EU regulations. They usually require national legislation to give them effect. In cases of non‑transposition or incorrect transposition, individuals may sometimes rely on the directive before national courts, and states may face liability for breach of EU law depending on the circumstances and case law.

Common areas covered by directives include consumer rights, workplace safety, environmental protection, and product standards. Over time, directives are often implemented through national statutes or administrative regulations that specify how the directive’s objectives are met within the country’s legal system.

In Hungarian usage, irányelv can also refer more broadly to policy guidelines or internal instructions issued by organizations, not exclusively EU legal acts.