Doctrine of Direct Effect

The Doctrine of Direct Effect is a principle in European Union law that allows individuals to rely on EU laws in their national courts. Essentially, if an EU law is clear, precise, and unconditional, citizens can invoke it directly, even if their country has not yet implemented it. This means that individuals can enforce their rights granted by EU regulations or directives without needing a domestic law. The doctrine ensures that EU laws have practical force and can be applied at the national level, promoting legal certainty and uniformity across member states.