European judicial area in civil matters: implementation, general framework for activities

PURPOSE : a framework for judicial cooperation in civil matters. COMMUNITY MEASURE : Council Regulation 743/2002/EC establishing a general Community framework of activities to facilitate the implementation of judicial cooperation in civil matters. CONTENT : This framework regulation aims particularly at: -ensuring legal certainty and improving access to justice; -promoting mutual recognition of judicial decisions and judgments; -promoting the necessary approximation of legislation; or -eliminating obstacles created by disparities in civil law and civil procedures. It also aims to improve mutual knowledge of Member States' legal and judicial systems, to ensure the application of Community instruments and to improve public information on access to justice. Activities given financial support must consist of: -specific actions taken by the Commission, such as training, or exchanges of work experience placements. A list of specific projects is given in the Regulation. -specific projects of Community interest; -non-governmental organisations. The proportion of financial support may not exceed 60% of the costs, and 80% under exceptional circumstances. There are provisions for the participation of third countries. DURATION OF PROGRAMME : 01/01/02 to 31/12/06. ENTRY INTO FORCE : 01/05/02.�