International Relations

In its jurisdiction, the Federal Administrative Court is associated with the European courts. Not least for this reason it cooperates closely with other European and international courts.

Association of courts in Europe

The Federal Administrative Court is Germany's supreme administrative court. It adjudicates as court of last instance. In doing so, it is required to apply European law in its rulings. Therefore the Federal Administrative Court is associated with the European courts. The European Courts have the final word in the application of European law. For instance, rulings by the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg are binding for the interpretation and application of the European Convention on Human Rights. The Court of Justice of the European Union in Luxembourg hands down final rulings on the law of the European Union. The Federal Administrative Court can submit questions to the Court of Justice of the European Union on the interpretation of Union law in ongoing proceedings.

European and International Cooperation

The principles of law in the European Union are rooted in the legal orders of the member states. Close cooperation with other European courts is therefore important. It enables a deeper understanding of one another, as well as an understanding of European law. This is why the Federal Administrative Court is a member of international associations and engages in international cooperation.