The Treaty of Prüm and the Principle of Loyalty (Art. 10 TEC)

Briefing 01-01-2006

This note addresses the question: Does the Treaty of Prüm, negotiated and signed by 7 Member States, respect the general principles of Community and Union law and in particular the principle of loyal cooperation derived from Article 10 TEC? What action can be requested by Parliament? It presents the content of the Treaty and clarifies why the Treaty may represent a countervailing force against the European Union’s area of freedom, security and justice. It shows that Prüm weakens the EU more than strengthens it, and under many circumstances, much is lost and very little is gained by curtailing the EU framework.