Lecture on Article 20 of the TFEU (EU Citizenship)

Introduction

• Purpose: Discuss Article 20 of TFEU regarding European Union (EU) citizenship.
• Importance: Though often overlooked, EU citizenship provides critical rights and obligations.
• Exam Relevance: Useful as supplementary information in various law subjects.

Why Article 20 Is Not Commonly Discussed

• Simplicity: Only consists of 4 key features.
• Perception: People don’t commonly identify themselves as EU citizens.

Key Features of Article 20

1. Right to Petition

• Definition: Citizens can contact the European Commission directly and must receive a response.
• Example: If someone questions a regulation, they can petition the Commission for an answer or repeal.

2. Diplomatic Protection

• Definition: EU citizens can seek help from any member state’s embassy, not just their own.
• Example: If in trouble abroad (e.g., in the USA), a UK citizen can approach Portuguese or Irish embassies for assistance.

3. Voting Rights

• Definition: Includes the right to vote and stand as a candidate in European Parliament elections.
• Example: Citizens can influence EU policies more directly by voting or running for the European Parliament.

4. Freedom of Movement

• Definition: General right to move and reside freely within the EU.
• Relation to Article 45: Serves as a foundational principle that supports more specific rights like the free movement of workers.

Application in Exams and Coursework

Connection to Article 45

• Strategy: Start answers on free movement of workers (Article 45) by mentioning citizenship under Article 20 as foundational.

Political Questions

• Democratic Deficit: Tie back to the rights and obligations under Article 20.

EU Institutions

• Example: Use Article 20 to discuss the Commission’s obligation to respond to citizen petitions.

Conclusion

• Summary: Article 20 establishes key rights and obligations of EU citizenship.
• Importance: Provides a legal basis for further rights and is a useful reference in exams and legal discussions.

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