Principles of European Law: theoretical and historical

The article examines the historical origins and development of the fundamental principles of European law, which have Roman law origins. The relevance of the topic is reinforced by the fact that Roman law principles still remain the foundation of the European legal tradition and the legal system of Ukraine, and their implementation is a necessary condition for successful European integration and sustainable development of the domestic legal order. The analysis of the influence of Roman law on the formation of the general principles of the Romano-Germanic legal family, the reception of these principles in the Middle Ages and their consolidation in the codifications of the Modern Age has been carried out. The reception of Roman law in Europe led to the formation of a common basis for continental legal systems. The Romano-Germanic legal family is characterized by the unity of basic concepts and principles, largely borrowed from Roman private and public law. As a result, by the 19th century. most of the principles developed by Roman law were integrated into the national legal systems of European states. The Romano-legal heritage, consolidated in the codifications, ensured the commonality of basic principles in the countries of continental Europe. The relevance of Roman legal principles for the modern European legal tradition and the legal system of Ukraine in the context of European integration is emphasized. The Constitution of Ukraine already enshrines the rule of law (Article 8), and the principles of equality, freedom, and justice are defined as fundamental for building a legal state. Ukraine’s European choice, recorded in strategic documents and amendments to the Constitution, provides for a deep harmonization of national legislation with EU law. This requires not only the implementation of the acquis communautaire norms, but also the assimilation of common principles prevailing in the European tradition. In practice, the rule of law serves as a criterion for assessing reforms (judicial, anti-corruption, etc.) during the implementation of the Association Agreement with the EU. It is concluded that legal harmonization based on common principles contributes to the stability and predictability of legal relations.