THE ISSUES OF CHALLENGING EU SANCTIONS DECISIONS: MECHANISMS AND CJEU CASE LAW ANALYSIS

Abstract

This article examines the legal framework and judicial oversight of the European Union's (EU) restrictive measures, which are integral to the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP). The focus of this study is on the mechanisms available for challenging these measures and the pivotal role played by the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) in ensuring their legality and procedural fairness. Through a comprehensive analysis of relevant case law, this article explores the procedural requirements for challenging sanctions, including the prerequisites for standing, the timelines for lodging complaints, etc. It highlights the CJEU’s approach to balancing the EU’s policy objectives with the protection of fundamental rights, emphasizing the court’s scrutiny of the Council of the EU's decisions and the necessity for robust evidence supporting sanctions. Key findings include an examination of the evolving landscape of EU sanctions in response to geopolitical events, such as the conflicts involving Russia and Ukraine, and the legal challenges that have arisen from these measures. The article provides insights into the broader implications for international law and the ongoing need for judicial oversight to ensure the effectiveness and fairness of EU sanctions.