Cooperation on justice and home affairs (Title VI of the EU Treaty) was introduced by the Treaty of Maastricht in 1993. This made provision for various specific instruments, including conventions. Since the entry into force of the Treaty of Amsterdam, conventions may only be used for police and judicial cooperation in criminal matters and they are now governed by new rules.

Based on the new Article 34 of the EU Treaty, a convention is adopted by unanimous decision of the Council after consulting the European Parliament and then ratified by the Member States in accordance with their respective constitutional procedures. After being ratified by at least half the Member States, a convention enters into force in those States.

The Court of Justice now has jurisdiction to give preliminary rulings on their interpretation and to rule on any disputes regarding their application. However, its role is subject to approval by the Member States. Each of them must make a declaration stating that they accept the Court's jurisdiction and designating the national courts that may refer questions to it.

See:

•Court of Justice of the European Union 
•Justice and home affairs (JHA)
•Police and judicial cooperation in criminal matters

The following video provides you with the correct English pronunciation of the word "Convention (Title VI of the EU Treaty)", to help you become a better English speaker.