International Law as a Source of the European Union Law

Abstract

This paper deals with European Union structure which is very complex and has implications on the position and effects of the international law rules within the scope of three European Union columns. European Union is a specific entity, unique in the international law. European Communities derive from the international law. They were established by the international treaties negotiated in accordance to the international law rules. Nevertheless, during their existence, the European Communities built their own legal system which is independent from the international law. In contrast to the European Communities, which built uniform legal system with supranational caracteristics, the other two European Union columns: Common Foreign and Security Policy and Police and Judicial Cooperation in Criminal Matters, are still limited to the intergovernmental cooperation.