European Union Directives

European Union Directives are legal acts issued by the EU to set goals for member states to achieve. Unlike regulations, which apply directly, directives provide a framework and allow countries to decide how to implement them within a set timeframe. This means that while the end goal is consistent across the EU—such as improving environmental standards or consumer rights—each member state can tailor its laws to fit its own legal system and context. Directives promote cooperation and harmonization across the EU while respecting national differences.