The politics of the UK Key Terms

Single Market

A legally established EU framework that ensures the free movement of goods, services, capital, and people, supported by harmonised regulations and a customs union.

Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP)

An EU policy area that coordinates collective foreign policy actions while respecting the sovereignty of member states in their individual diplomatic relations.

Transposition

The process by which an EU directive is incorporated into national law, allowing a member state to achieve the directive’s objectives while retaining some legislative flexibility.

Direct Effect

A principle whereby certain EU provisions can be invoked directly by individuals in domestic courts without the need for national implementing legislation.