Constructive ambiguity
Euro-speak for a compromise where the exact meaning of a legal text or treaty is unclear – allowing it to be interpreted in different ways in different countries.
Notes
- In addition, sometimes different translations of EU law are made to oblige the various member states on sensitive points, facilitating compromise and minimising political tension.
- It is often wise to consult the French version of an EU text because French is the working language of the EU Court. There are also French civil servants heading the legal service in both the Council, the European Parliament and the Commission. The Lisbon Treaty was mainly negotiated in French.
