The European Parliament plays a crucial role in the ratification of international agreements. As a co-legislator, the Parliament ensures that any agreement entered into by the European Union (EU) complies with its legal framework and reflects the interests of EU citizens. In this article, we will explore the Parliament`s role in international agreements and how its decisions affect EU policies.
The Parliament`s Role in International Agreements
The Parliament has several roles when it comes to international agreements, including ratification, scrutiny, and consent. Ratification involves approving the agreement as a whole, while scrutiny ensures that the agreement does not infringe on EU law or fundamental rights. Lastly, consent determines if the agreement requires the Parliament`s prior approval.
The Parliament`s involvement in international agreements is particularly relevant when it comes to trade agreements, which can have significant economic and social consequences. The Parliament`s approval of these agreements is essential for their implementation, and it ensures that they are compliant with EU standards on labor rights, environmental protection, and consumer safety.
The Parliament has also been proactive in establishing the EU`s position in international negotiations. For instance, the Parliament`s resolutions and recommendations have played a crucial role in shaping the EU`s negotiating positions in the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) and the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) negotiations.
Impact on EU Policies
The Parliament`s decisions on international agreements have a profound impact on EU policies. For instance, the Parliament rejected the Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement (ACTA) in 2012, which was intended to strengthen intellectual property rights. This decision was a significant setback for the EU`s trade agenda, as it signaled a lack of confidence in the agreement`s provisions.
Similarly, the Parliament played a significant role in shaping the EU`s position in the Paris Agreement on climate change. Its resolution on the agreement called for ambitious emissions reduction targets, increased climate financing, and the establishment of a global carbon market. The Parliament`s position helped to ensure that the EU`s commitments were in line with the goals of the Paris Agreement.
Conclusion
The European Parliament`s role in international agreements is essential for ensuring that EU citizens` interests are protected and that the agreements comply with EU law. Its decisions on trade agreements and climate change can have a profound impact on EU policies, and its resolutions and recommendations can shape the EU`s negotiating positions. As the EU continues to pursue its trade and climate change agendas, the Parliament`s involvement will remain crucial for ensuring that these agreements reflect EU standards and values.
