Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book analyses how the 'horizontal social clause' works in infusing social values into other policies. It intends to assess the interaction between economic objectives and social aims enshrined in the pertinent normative acts. From the Member States' perspective, the book discuss the scope of action in promoting and protecting animal welfare through measures resulting in restrictions to trade, in light of the new Article 13 TEFU. It contributes to the growing debate on the principle of gender integration. The book explores the Court's prevalent approach of integrating consumer protection requirements into a wider internal market framework and discusses the potential role to be played by Article 12 TFEU in this respect. It considers possible external implications relating to compliance with international trade obligations in the world trade organization framework.