Caught on the Radar of the European Commission: Croatian Experiences with the Infringement Procedure

Abstract

This paper is devoted to infringement cases which the European Commission opened in relation to the Republic of Croatia while exercising its role as a "guardian of the Treaties". During the first eight years of its membership in the European Union, the Republic of Croatia has gained valuable experience regarding this instrument of enforcement of European Union law, without paying a steep price in the process. The proceedings under Article 258 TFEU have so far resulted in one judgment against Croatia (Case C-250/18 Commission v Croatia). The volume, timing, duration and outcome of infringement cases against Croatia provide valuable insights into potential litigation risks for future cases and point to lessons which can be drawn for those risks to be mitigated.