Enforceability of solidarity in the European Union

Abstract

Failure to cooperate and show solidarity in certain areas in the EU has created several problems within the Union. Solidarity is extremely important as the main purpose of the Union is for member states to be able to work together to achieve collective goals. Therefore, if there is a deficit in solidarity, then certain important goals of the Union cannot be accomplished. Along these lines, this thesis explores the concept of solidarity in the European Union. It traces the origins of solidarity and the motivations for solidarity within the Union. It then explores the various treaty provisions which provide for solidarity and cooperation within the Union and how the CJEU has interpreted them. It looks at solidarity in different areas including the area of Asylum, environmental protection, energy procurement, Common Defence & Arms Acquisition etc. Furthermore, it examines member states behavior in terms their compliance with decisions of the Court. Finally, it draws a comparison between solidarity at the Union level and the international level and provides recommendations in the conclusion.