Glossary · Legal instruments

What is Recital?

Definition

Recital means: A recital is an explanatory paragraph before the operative articles of an EU act that sets context, purpose and reasoning for the rules. Source: EUR-Lex glossary of summaries.

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Why it matters

Recitals do not usually contain stand-alone obligations, but they are heavily used to interpret the scope and intent of the articles.

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Frequently asked

What is Recital?

A recital is an explanatory paragraph before the operative articles of an EU act that sets context, purpose and reasoning for the rules.

Why does Recital matter in EU policy?

Recitals do not usually contain stand-alone obligations, but they are heavily used to interpret the scope and intent of the articles.

Where can I verify the definition of Recital?

Lex cites EUR-Lex glossary of summaries for this definition and links the source records on this page.

Official sources

EUR-Lex glossary of summaries ↗

Definitions are short paraphrases of official records, not legal advice. For binding text, use the linked EUR-Lex act, Official Journal or EU institution page.

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