The European Draft Common Frame of Reference - A Source of Comparative Law: A New Option for Choosing the Applicable Law - Or a Template for a European Civil Code?

International Seminar on Comparative Law, Conference Proceedings, Kuala Lumpur, November 2008

20 Pages Posted: 22 Dec 2008

See all articles by Henning Grosse Ruse-Khan

Henning Grosse Ruse-Khan

University of Cambridge Fellow, King's College Cambridge; University of Cambridge

Date Written: December 22, 2008

Abstract

In early 2008, two coordinated networks of European researchers on private law presented the final draft for a common frame of reference (DCFR) containing principles, definitions and model rules on European Private law. The DCFR builds on decades of comparative legal study as embodied in the Principles of European Contract Law; but goes further by including, inter alia, unjust enrichment and torts. In this paper I assess the various objectives of the DCFR and sketch the impact their realisation might have on private law in Europe and possibly beyond: (1) As the final result of a comprehensive research project commissioned by the EU Commission, the DCFR aims to serve as a model for a political common frame of reference (CFR) which the EU Commission might utilise for further harmonisation activities in the field of private law, possibly even leading to a European Civil Code. What does this imply for the diversity of legal systems in Europe; in particular the contrasting approaches in civil- and common law traditions? (2) In light of the current revision of European rules on the law applicable to contractual obligations, a political CFR or even the current academic DCFR might function as an 'optional instrument' which parties choose as the applicable law governing their (contractual) obligations. Does this really serve a viable alternative addressing those who fear for overarching uniformity? (3) Finally, the DCFR as an academic text operates as a source of comparative law. Does it epitomize a common European legacy in private law?

Keywords: Draft Common Frame of Reference, DCFR, European Civil Code, European Contract Law

Suggested Citation

Grosse Ruse-Khan, Henning, The European Draft Common Frame of Reference - A Source of Comparative Law: A New Option for Choosing the Applicable Law - Or a Template for a European Civil Code? (December 22, 2008). International Seminar on Comparative Law, Conference Proceedings, Kuala Lumpur, November 2008, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1319247

Henning Grosse Ruse-Khan (Contact Author)

University of Cambridge Fellow, King's College Cambridge ( email )

King's Parade
Cambridge, CB2 1ST
United Kingdom

University of Cambridge ( email )

Trinity Ln
Cambridge, CB2 1TN
United Kingdom

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