Discrimination of EU nationals

One of the most important provisions of the Treaty Establishing the European Community is Article 12, which prohibits discrimination on grounds of nationality:

Within the scope of application of this Treaty, and without prejudice to any special provisions contained therein, any discrimination on grounds of nationality shall be prohibited.

The Council, acting in accordance with the procedure referred to in Article 251, may adopt rules designed to prohibit such discrimination.

This prohibition of discrimination on grounds of nationality is a fundamental principle of the European Community. Without it the exercise of the four fundamental freedoms would be impaired.

EC nationals have a right to expect to be treated in a non-discriminatory manner in other Member States.

On the other hand, we have to treat nationals of other EC countries fairly.

The principle is clear, but as in many other cases it takes a lot of effort to change attitudes and habits.

Ralf Grahn