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A regulation is a legislative act of the European Union which becomes immediately enforceable as law in all member states simultaneously. It can be distinguished from directives which are, at least in principle, binding only on a particular result to be achieved and dependent on implementing measures.

Legal effect
The European Court of Justice has established a differentiation between what it calls 'Basic Regulations' and 'Execution Regulations':

'Basic Regulations' establish essential rules governing a certain matter, and are normally adopted by the Council.
Execution Regulations technically organise these principles; they are usually taken by the European Commission or the Council acting on the basis of article 211. European Constitution

European Union law
EUR-Lex
EudraLex