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Mutual recognition agreements (MRAs): all you need to know

What are mutual recognition agreements? Mutual recognition agreements (MRAs) are agreements between two trading partners to reduce technical barriers to trade. They…

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What are EU agencies?

In addition to its main legislative bodies, the EU also has an array of agencies that contribute to EU policies in various…

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How new member states join the EU: all you need to know

Accession is the process by which new countries join the EU. Member states recently reached agreement on opening accession negotiations with North…

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When a new country joins the EU, does free movement apply straight away?

When new countries join the EU, existing member states have in general been allowed to apply restrictions on the free movement rights of citizens from new member states for a transitional period.
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Fact

What is the consent mechanism?

The consent mechanism is a decision-making procedure in the EU whereby the EU Council must seek the consent of the European Parliament.
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What is Article 49?

Article 49 of the Treaty on European Union sets out the procedure for countries to join the EU. Read this fact to find out more.
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