The Legal Framework for the Participation of the European Union in International Institutions

Abstract

This article addresses to what extent the current EU Treaties regulate the position of the EU in other international institutions. This is a legal question, which explains the strong focus on competences and treaty provisions. The main findings are therefore related to what the EU can do, how it can do this (and has done it), and what the division of competences is in relation to its member states. It is argued that legal competences matter and that they may influence the performance of the EU in international institutions. In that respect, it is concluded that the treaties do allow for the EU to be engaged in international institutions and even to become a full member of other international organizations or participate in treaty regimes, albeit that the treaties do not at all present the relevant provisions in any coherent fashion.

Key Words:

• European Union
• legal status
• Lisbon Treaty
• participation in international institutions