What is the Court of Justice of the European Union ? Be an informed European consumer with InfoCons Consumer Protection on Europe Day 2026
Every year on 9 May, we celebrate Europe Day, an important moment for all the member states of the European Union. This day marks the Schuman Declaration of 1950, considered the starting point of modern European integration and cooperation between European states for the promotion of peace, democracy, and the rule of law. Today, the European Union represents a symbol of unity and democratic values, and one of its fundamental institutions is the Court of Justice of the European Union.
The Court of Justice of the European Union, also known as the CJEU, has the role of ensuring that European Union law is interpreted and applied uniformly across all member states. At the same time, the institution ensures that both member states and European institutions comply with EU law.
The institution was established in 1952 and is headquartered in Luxembourg. The Court of Justice of the European Union is one of the most important European institutions, as it contributes to maintaining a coherent and fair European legal system for all citizens and member states.
The Court of Justice of the European Union settles disputes and provides interpretations of European legislation in the cases brought before it. One of its most common activities is the interpretation of EU law through preliminary rulings. National courts in member states may ask the Court for clarification whenever there are uncertainties regarding the interpretation or validity of a European legal provision. This mechanism contributes to the uniform application of EU legislation across all member states.
The Court also has the role of ensuring that member states comply with European legislation. In situations where a member state fails to fulfil its obligations under EU law, the European Commission or another member state may bring a case before the Court. If the state is found responsible, it must correct the situation and, in certain cases, may be required to pay financial penalties.
Another important type of procedure is the action for annulment. In certain situations, the Court may annul European legal acts considered incompatible with the treaties of the European Union or with fundamental rights. These actions may be brought by member states, European institutions, or, under certain conditions, by individuals and companies directly affected.
The Court of Justice of the European Union may also intervene when European institutions fail to fulfil their legal obligations. In such cases, member states, other European institutions, or certain individuals and companies may bring an action before the Court for failure to act.
At the same time, individuals or companies that believe they have suffered harm as a result of the action or inaction of a European institution may seek compensation through the Court.
The Court of Justice of the European Union is organised into two main courts: the Court of Justice and the General Court. The Court of Justice mainly deals with requests for preliminary rulings from national courts, certain actions for annulment, and appeals. The General Court mainly handles cases brought by individuals, companies, and, in some situations, member states, in areas such as competition, state aid, trade, and trademarks.
The structure of the institution includes one judge from each member state of the European Union, as well as advocates general who assist the Court by providing independent legal opinions. Judges and advocates general are appointed by common agreement between the governments of the member states for renewable six-year terms.
The work of the Court of Justice of the European Union takes place in several stages. Proceedings generally begin with a written phase, during which the parties involved submit documents and observations to the Court. In certain cases, a public hearing follows, during which lawyers and representatives present their arguments before the judges. Afterwards, the judges deliberate and deliver the final judgment.
The Court of Justice of the European Union also plays an important role for citizens. Individuals and companies may turn to the European judicial system when they believe their rights have been affected by the actions of European institutions. This can be done either indirectly through national courts or directly, in certain cases, before the General Court.
Over time, the Court of Justice of the European Union has played an essential role in the development of European law and in strengthening the fundamental principles of the European Union, such as the rule of law, equality, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
In conclusion, the Court of Justice of the European Union is the institution that guarantees the respect and uniform application of European legislation across all member states. Through its activity, the institution contributes to protecting citizens’ rights, resolving disputes, and strengthening the European legal system. On Europe Day, celebrated on 9 May, we can better understand the importance of European institutions and their role in building a Europe based on law, democracy, and cooperation.
Signature: InfoCons Communication Department
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