Fundamentals of European Law

1. To acquaint students with the basic principles and structure of European law.
2. To understand the functioning of European Union (EU) institutions and their impact on Member States.
3. To comprehend the application of European law in the national context.
4. Independent basic orientation in the issues of EU law and its application.

For: students of non-legal disciplines

Scope of Instruction: 16 hours (4 sessions of 4 hours each), 18. 4. and 26. 4. 2026

Session 1: Introduction to European Law (4 hours)

1. Origins and Development of European Law

• Historical development of European integration (Treaties of Rome, Maastricht Treaty, Lisbon Treaty).
• Fundamental goals and values of the EU.

1. Basic Principles of European Law

• Supremacy of European law.
• Direct effect.

Session 2: Legal Foundations of the EU (4 hours)

1. Primary Law

• Founding treaties and their role.
• Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union.

1. Secondary Law

• Regulations, directives, and decisions.
• Methods of implementation in Member States.

1. Relationship between European and National Law

• Conflicts and their resolution.
• Role of the Court of Justice of the EU.

Session 3: EU Institutions and Their Roles (4 hours)

1. Key EU Institutions

• European Council, European Commission, European Parliament, Council of the EU.
• Court of Justice of the EU and its decision-making role.

1. Functioning of the Legislative Process in the EU

• Co-decision and adoption of legal acts.

1. Role of Member States and Their Relationship with the EU

• Sharing of competences between the EU and Member States.

Session 4: Application of European Law (4 hours)

1. European Law in the National Context

• How European law influences the legal systems of Member States.
• Implementation procedures for directives and regulations.

1. European Single Market and Its Four Freedoms

• Free movement of goods: rules, restrictions, and removal of barriers.
• Free movement of services: harmonization of rules and provision of cross-border services.
• Free movement of persons: rules for labor mobility and rights of EU citizens.
• Free movement of capital: removal of obstacles to investments and financial transactions.

Bc. Adéla Lišková
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