Recent developments and key obstacles to rapid and correct implementation of EC legislation

The Internal Market of the European Union (EU) enables to EU citizens and enterprises the possibility to move to another Member State in order to study, to work, to enjoy retirement, to set up a business or to operate on the market of another EU Member State (MS). However, the Internal Market is imperfect due to difficulties with e.g. residence permits, recognition of qualification, car registration, or employment, social security and tax rights. Correct and timely transposition of EC legislation – primarily directives relating to the Internal Market – is crucial for its proper functioning; conversely, late or incorrect transposition of directives may lead to the Market’s fragmentation as well as a diminishing competitiveness and cohesion of the European economy. Priorities for the period 2003-2006 of the Internal Market Strategy striving to further eliminate barriers to trade in goods and services alike ensuring that EC legislation is both implemented and applied correctly entailed integrating services markets, setting up high quality network industries, reducing the impact of tax obstacles, expanding procurement opportunities, improving conditions for business, simplifying the regulatory environment, meeting the demographic challenge, getting the best out of the enlarged internal market alike its international context, monitoring, improving the information policy as well as enforcing the rules. This paper aims to look into recent developments of and key obstacles to rapid and correct implementation of EC legislation.