This text investigates the foundational legal principles, institutional structures, and constitutional framework of the European Union. Robert Schütze, a professor of European Law, utilizes his extensive academic background to provide a systematic analysis of the Union's legal order. The book synthesizes primary treaty law, landmark case law from the Court of Justice, and secondary legislation to explain how the EU functions as a supranational entity. It serves as a comprehensive guide for students and practitioners seeking to understand the complex interplay between national sovereignty and European integration.

Legal scholars and university instructors frequently cite this work as a foundational text for understanding the technical complexities of EU law. Readers often note the academic density of the prose, which is balanced by a clear, logical structure that aids in navigating the intricacies of the European legal system.