The European dimension to justice issues has become increasingly important in recent years, due to factors such as increased freedom of movement between countries and the threats posed by terrorism and serious crime.
Some issues dealt with at European Union (EU) level concern matters that are reserved to the UK Government, such as immigration and asylum, although even here Scotland can have a significant interest. Other EU initiatives and activities relate to matters that fall within devolved competence and so are the direct responsibility of the Scottish Government.