Policy paper 215

Rights and Role of the European Parliament in Common Commercial Policy

Over the past decades, the role of the European Parliament in international trade agreements has continuously increased. The controversial debates surrounding trade agreements like ACTA, TTIP, and CETA have shown that it is important to involve the European Parliament (and national parliaments) early in the process.

This Policy Paper highlights the foundational legal provisions and rules in the EU Treaties for concluding international trade agreements between the EU and third countries. Then,
the Policy Paper presents the political veto power role of the European Parliament in Common Commercial Policy.