Climate Governance and Environmental Law in the European Union: Institutional Effectiveness, Policy Coherence, and Socio-Economic Outcomes
Keywords:
European Union, climate governance, environmental lawAbstract
The European Union (EU) is widely regarded as a global leader in climate governance and environmental regulation. Through binding legislation, coordinated institutional mechanisms, and ambitious emissions reduction targets, the EU has sought to balance climate mitigation with economic and social stability. This paper critically examines the effectiveness of EU climate governance by analyzing legal frameworks, institutional coordination, and socioeconomic outcomes. Using a qualitative policy analysis and comparative legal approach, recent legislative instruments and scholarly literature (2024–2025) are reviewed. Findings suggest that while the EU demonstrates strong regulatory coherence and legal enforceability, disparities in national implementation and social equity challenges persist. The paper concludes with policy recommendations aimed at strengthening institutional integration and ensuring a just climate transition across Member States.
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