EU Law Enforcement: The Evolution of Sanctioning Powers

The existence of a structured enforcement system is an inherent feature of national legal orders and one of the core elements of State sovereignty. The EU's institutional setting is growing in complexity and a variety of agencies has been or is expected to be endowed with law enforcement responsibilities. This book examines these developments, focusing on both the general features of the EU legal order and the analysis of key-substantive areas, such as banking and monetary union, environmental law, and data protection. It bridges a gap in existing literature and sheds new light on the relationship between the exercise of jus puniendi and the evolution of EU integration.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 338 pages
Publication date: 29 August 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The establishment of a well-defined enforcement framework is a fundamental characteristic of national legal systems and a crucial component of State sovereignty. The limited authority to impose sanctions has frequently been perceived as a weakness in the European Union's legal order. However, over time, this situation has undergone significant transformation. The institutional landscape of the Union is becoming increasingly complex, with various agencies assuming or expected to assume law enforcement responsibilities. Furthermore, the phenomenon known as "competence creep" has resulted in the European Union assuming a more prominent role in various areas of EU law enforcement, including the issuance of sanctions.

This book delves into these developments, examining both the overarching characteristics of the EU legal order and the analysis of key substantive areas such as banking and monetary union, environmental law, and data protection. By providing a comprehensive framework for understanding EU sanctioning based on structural features and general legal principles, this work aims to bridge a gap in existing literature and shed new light on the interplay between the exercise of jus puniendi and the evolution of EU integration.

In Part I, the book establishes an analytical framework that tracks the most significant evolutionary patterns of EU sanctioning powers. It explores the historical background, legal foundations, and institutional developments that have shaped the Union's sanctioning authority. This part provides a solid foundation for understanding the evolution of EU sanctioning and the factors that have influenced its development.

Part II of the book adopts a more practical approach, focusing on specific issues and policy areas. It examines the legal framework and practical implications of EU sanctions in various contexts, such as counterterrorism, human rights violations, and financial misconduct. By providing case studies and examples, this part demonstrates how EU sanctions are implemented and the challenges and opportunities they present.

Throughout the book, the authors draw on a wealth of legal scholarship and empirical evidence to support their arguments. They analyze the relevant legal provisions, case law, and policy documents to provide a comprehensive understanding of EU sanctioning. The book also engages with broader debates about the role of law and enforcement in international relations and the challenges posed by globalized economic and political systems.

In conclusion, this book offers a valuable contribution to the study of EU law and policy. It provides a comprehensive and up-to-date analysis of EU sanctioning, exploring its historical, legal, and practical dimensions. By examining the relationship between the exercise of jus puniendi and the evolution of EU integration, the book sheds new light on the complex dynamics of international law and governance. Whether scholars, policymakers, or practitioners, this book will be an essential resource for understanding the evolving landscape of EU sanctioning and its implications for global security and stability.

Weight: 522g
Dimension: 156 x 233 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367765668