Three years after its establishment the CEFL presents its first Principles of European Family Law in the field of divorce and maintenance between former spouses. The Principles aim to bestow the most suitable means for the harmonisation of family laws in Europe. In this respect they may serve as a frame of reference for national, European and international legislatures alike. The Principles could considerably facilitate their task not only by virtue of the fact that the CEFL's in-depth and comprehensive comparative research is easily accesible but also because most of the rules have been drafted in a way legislatures normally consider to be appropriate.

The Principles of European Family Law drafted by the Commission on European Family Law (CEFL) contain models which may be used for the harmonization of family law in Europe. This book contains the Principles regarding Property Relations between Spouses. In these Principles, the CEFL has developed an all-inclusive set of rules for two matrimonial property regimes: the participiation in acquisitions and the community of acquistions. Both regimes have been put on an equal footing. Each matrimonial property regime, whether it functions as a default or as an optional regime is strongly connected with the rights and duties of the spouses and the possibility for them to make a marital property agreement. These issues have also been addressed by including two common Chapters on the General Rights and Duties of Spouses and on Marital Property Agreements which are to be applied regardless of which of the regimes applies.

The Principles of European Family Law which are drafted by the CEFL are aimed at contributing to the harmonisation of family law in Europe. They may thus be used as a frame of reference. The first set of Principles in the field of Divorce and Maintenance Between Former Spouses was launched in 2004. This book contains the Principles Regarding Parental Responsibilities. In these Principles, the CEFL has developed a comprehensive and original set of rules in the field of parental responsibilities based on respect for the rights of the child, non-discrimination and, as far as possible, self-determination. In their provisions on specific issues the Principles opt for solutions which seem to be workable and shall avoid unnecessary hardship and disputes.