Family Law in Europe: from Mutual Recognition and Enforcement to Harmonisation of Substantive Law?

Citation

Sutherland EE (2006) Family Law in Europe: from Mutual Recognition and Enforcement to Harmonisation of Substantive Law?. International Family Law, 2006, pp. 167-169.

Abstract
First paragraph: With the EU now comprising 25 Member States - and growing - how similar is the law on a given topic in our various legal systems? If dramatically different, what obstacles are there to mutual recognition and enforcement of rights and judicial decisions? If similar, what scope is there for harmonisation of substantive law? These were some of the themes addressed at the seminar 'Latest Developments in European Family Law and Succession', organised in Luxembourg in May 2006 by the European Institute of Public Administration (EIPA). Hosting 11 speakers and 24 additional registered participants, the seminar gave ample opportunity for full discussion both in the formal sessions and at the excellent lunches and reception that formed part of the programme. Simultaneous French-English translation was provided in the formal sessions and language proved to be no obstacle outside of them. Undoubtedly, harmonisation is far more contentious an issue than is recognition and enforcement, and it was the 'H-word' (for lawyers, the equivalent of that other European hot potato, the 'F-word', federalism) that provided a continuing theme over the 2 days.

Journal
International Family Law: Volume 2006