Eurojust Annual Report 2007

Abstract:

The sixth Eurojust Annual Report presents information on its activities in 2007, a significant turning point in the development of Eurojust. This year Eurojust celebrated its fifth anniversary.

Since 2002 Eurojust has made steady progress in its operational work, within the organisation (e.g. information management and technology), in its relations with national authorities and third States, and in enhancing co-operation with other EU bodies. These developments have also enabled Eurojust to offer better support to national authorities, improve co-operation and stimulate co-ordination.

I am delighted to announce that a significant milestone was achieved when the number of cases referred to the College exceeded 1 000 in 2007, reaching 1 085 cases, which is an increase of 41 % compared to 2006.

After five years of existence, it is time to assess the implementation of the Decision setting up Eurojust. The Council, in its Conclusions on the Eurojust Annual Report 2006, stressed the need for a mid-term assessment of the effectiveness and unexploited potential of Eurojust. The Lisbon seminar, which was supported by the Portuguese Presidency of the Council of the European Union, and entitled "Eurojust — Navigating the Way Forward", was such an exercise. In 2007 Eurojust also welcomed the Communication of the Commission on the Future of Eurojust and the European Judicial Network (EJN).