Study-Unit Description

Study-Unit Description


CODE EST1023

 
TITLE Enforcement of European Union Law

 
UM LEVEL 01 - Year 1 in Modular Undergraduate Course

 
MQF LEVEL 5

 
ECTS CREDITS 4

 
DEPARTMENT European Studies

 
DESCRIPTION The study-unit covers the main procedures of the European Court of Justice in the European Union's Legal Order. It begins with an introduction to the Court of Justice of the EU (CJEU) and its pivotal role in shaping the EU Legal Order, highlighting its contributions to the enhancement of the rights of EU citizens. This foundational overview sets the stage for understanding the Court's influence on both national and EU law.

Then we examine the so-called General Principles of Union Law, through the case law of the European Court of Justice. This examination will delve into the significant case law that has established these principles, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of their application and implications. The discussion on the General Principles of Union Law will be divided into two key areas: Human Rights as General Principles of Union Law and Principles of Good Administration of Justice. The latter includes essential concepts such as proportionality, vested rights, legal certainty, and the right to effective judicial protection, all of which are crucial for the fair administration of justice within the EU framework.

The remaining topics are devoted to the Jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice, covering the Preliminary Rulings Procedure, Enforcement Actions, and the Direct Action for Annulment, along with other relevant actions. This section will explore the procedural mechanisms that allow the CJEU to interpret and enforce EU law, emphasising the importance of these procedures in maintaining the rule of law across member states.

The objective is to equip students with a thorough understanding of the procedural dynamics and substantive principles governing the CJEU's operations. By the end of this study-unit, students will develop an understanding of the intricate relationship between EU law and national legal systems, as well as the essential role of the CJEU in safeguarding the rights of individuals and ensuring compliance with EU legislation. This knowledge will prepare students for advanced discussions on EU law and its impact on both legal practice and policy-making within the European Union.

 
RULES/CONDITIONS In TAKING THIS UNIT YOU CANNOT TAKE ECL3002

 
ADDITIONAL NOTES This study-unit is not available to students registered at the Faculty of Laws

 
STUDY-UNIT TYPE Lecture

 
METHOD OF ASSESSMENT
Assessment Component/s Assessment Due Sept. Asst Session Weighting
Examination (2 Hours) SEM2 Yes 100%

 
LECTURER/S Jelena Agranovska

 

 
The University makes every effort to ensure that the published Courses Plans, Programmes of Study and Study-Unit information are complete and up-to-date at the time of publication. The University reserves the right to make changes in case errors are detected after publication.
The availability of optional units may be subject to timetabling constraints.
Units not attracting a sufficient number of registrations may be withdrawn without notice.
It should be noted that all the information in the description above applies to study-units available during the academic year 2025/6. It may be subject to change in subsequent years.

https://www.um.edu.mt/course/studyunit