Public Procurement Law in the European Union

Abstract

This chapter discusses EU public procurement law. Public authorities in the European Union must comply with the rules of European public procurement law when purchasing works, supplies, or services on the market. Being able to maneuver swiftly within the legal scope of these rules is of utmost importance because it enables professionals in the public procurement context to make purchasing decisions in compliance with the law and its objectives. These rules often allow for, or even stimulate, efficient and effective procurement in line with a public organization’s objectives and tasks. Particular attention is, therefore, paid in this chapter to how the law allows for sustainable and social public procurement. This type of legal knowledge is necessary for public procurement to be able to contribute to solving societal challenges, such as climate change and social injustice. Accordingly, the aim of this chapter is to provide an understanding of EU public procurement law by delving into its objective, sources of law and the legal principles. The scope of these rules is also discussed and some of the most prominent aspects of the procedural rules are highlighted considering sustainability and social objectives. Finally, this chapter describes the remedies for aggrieved bidders to gain legal protection.