Which of the following illustrates the concept of vertical direct effect?

The concept of vertical direct effect refers to the ability of individuals to invoke European Union (EU) law against a member state or public authority. This principle is crucial in ensuring that EU laws and directives are not just theoretical but can be enforced by individuals in national courts.

In the context of the answer provided, claiming rights against the government before law implementation exemplifies vertical direct effect because it involves an individual seeking to enforce EU law against a state entity. This situation arises when an EU directive, which is intended to confer rights, has not been correctly implemented by the member state. The individual can still invoke the directive to claim those rights in a national court, thereby holding the government accountable for not fulfilling its obligations under EU law.

Other options do not demonstrate vertical direct effect. Challenging a private contract typically involves disputes between private parties and does not concern the enforcement of EU law against a state. Seeking compensation from local government only pertains to actions against a local authority and does not capture the broader application of EU law against the state as a whole. Similarly, filing a lawsuit against another individual involves private law matters that do not engage the enforcement of EU directives or regulations against a public authority.