EU launches divorce dialogue

A new green paper launched by the European Commission proposes to find solutions for ‘international couples’ seeking divorce.

The paper discusses the difficulties faced by couples of different nationalities who need to know which member state's divorce law is applicable.

Justice commissioner Franco Frattini said that the aim of the paper, “is not to harmonise the divorce laws of member states, but to find solutions which facilitate the life of the citizens.”

The EU has so far established common rules on jurisdiction of courts and mutual recognition of divorce judgements.

But, believes the commission, it is also necessary to tackle the question of applicable law - as ‘international couples’ find it difficult to predict which national laws the divorce court will apply.

The green paper is a launching pad for public consultation where those who submit their comments on the topic will be invited to discuss the proposals said a commission spokesman.

The initiative is part of the EU’s aim to create a common judicial area in the field of family law.

In Germany alone approximately 30,000 couples of differing nationalities divorce each year reports the commission.

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