The European Union is a constant topic for debate. In this thesis I take a closer look at the Union's many problems, possible solutions and how European integration should/will likely progress in the future. To accomplish this, I compare the EU's policy to other similar types, such as composite states (accessory union & union aeque principaliter). Furthermore I look at Switzerland, as an example for diversity in one state and the USA and similar models, as a reference point for federalism.
Table of Contents
1. Preface and Introduction
2. Issues of the EU
2.1. Additional Problems
3. Composite States versus Nation States
4. Accessory Unions
5. Aeque Principaliter
6. Federalism
7. Diversity
8. The new model for the European Union
9. Conclusion
Research Objectives and Key Topics
This thesis aims to analyze the current political and structural challenges of the European Union, investigating whether alternative historical state models can provide a viable path for the future development and democratization of the Union.
- Analysis of the democratic deficit and institutional imbalances within the EU.
- Examination of "accessory unions" and "aeque principaliter" as historical frameworks for comparison.
- Critique of the current economic governance and the impact of the Euro crisis.
- Investigation of European integration through the lens of Competitive Identity and federalist theory.
- Proposal of a new institutional model to bridge the gap between national and supranational representation.
Excerpt from the Book
4. Accessory Unions
The nation states we have today, are a result of the accessory union, being combined with national identities. To find out exactly how national identities have formed in all the different countries, would lead me too far away from my actual topic. However, seeing as national identity is in constant flux and globalisation tears at it, I do not believe that the accessory union, as we live it today, would be a stable proposition for the European Union, as long as the nationality question is still present. It is not unforeseeable that such a state form could lead to another Yugoslavia. As such it would be important to review the weak points of the former state before attempting any similar construction. Vladimir Gligorov has analysed what the main issues of Yugoslavia's break up have been:
First and foremost there is the issue of national interests, which were the foundation of the state. In other words, any attempt at a European Superstate would require a foundation in which national interests in the form of the right to self-determination are not given. Furthermore, Yugoslavia had no federal system and did not actively try to suppress national identities.
Chapter Summaries
1. Preface and Introduction: The author outlines the scope of the thesis, focusing on the future development of the European Union in light of recent crises and its need for internal structural reform.
2. Issues of the EU: This chapter highlights the lack of a shared political culture, the imbalance between national and European levels of governance, and the representative deficits affecting citizens.
2.1. Additional Problems: An analysis of the economic dilemmas and structural incompleteness of the Eurozone, identifying greed and lack of regulation as core failures.
3. Composite States versus Nation States: The author challenges the notion that the EU is a sui generis construction, arguing it should be evaluated alongside historical composite state forms.
4. Accessory Unions: Discusses the risks of unitary "accessory" unions by examining the collapse of Yugoslavia and the dangers of suppressing national/regional identities.
5. Aeque Principaliter: Explores the "aeque principaliter" model as a more suitable approach for the EU, emphasizing the preservation of distinct regional laws and customs within a broader union.
6. Federalism: Investigates the structural differences between the US and EU, suggesting that external pressures may drive Europe closer to a federal model over time.
7. Diversity: Argues that cultural diversity is not a hindrance to integration but a strength, drawing parallels between European unity and the Swiss model of cantonal autonomy.
8. The new model for the European Union: Proposes an institutional reform, including a new "Euro council" to separate national and European legislative competencies and enhance democratic accountability.
9. Conclusion: Summarizes that while a superstate is currently unfeasible, the EU must remain united and continue evolving its democratic structures to maintain relevance on the global stage.
Keywords
European Union, Integration, Federalism, Accessory Union, Aeque Principaliter, Democratic Deficit, Political Culture, Euro Crisis, Composite States, Supranationalism, Sovereignty, Political Branding, Multilevel Democracy, Institutional Reform, National Identity
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fundamental focus of this bachelor thesis?
The work examines the current political structure of the European Union, addressing its democratic deficits and institutional issues, while proposing future models based on historical precedents.
What are the core themes addressed in the analysis?
Key themes include the tension between national and European governance, the impact of economic crises, the role of cultural identity, and the potential for a federalized European future.
What is the primary research question?
The thesis seeks to determine in which direction the European Union should and will most likely develop to overcome its current structural and democratic deficits.
Which scientific methodology is applied?
The author uses a comparative political science approach, utilizing historical case studies—such as the Spanish Monarchy, Yugoslavia, and Switzerland—to evaluate the EU’s institutional framework.
What does the main body explore?
It explores the concepts of "accessory unions" versus "aeque principaliter," the necessity of democratic reform, and the feasibility of moving from a confederation toward a federal state structure.
Which keywords characterize this publication?
The most important terms include European Union, Integration, Federalism, Democratic Deficit, Sovereignty, and Composite States.
How does the author view the "Euro crisis"?
The author views the Euro crisis as a result of the EU's incomplete design, emphasizing that the union was founded primarily as an economic entity without sufficient political and regulatory safeguards.
Why does the author advocate for a "Euro council"?
The proposed "Euro council" would inherit legislative powers on the European level, ensuring a clear separation between national and supranational levels, thereby giving the EU a visible "national" face to citizens.
What role does Switzerland play in the author's argument?
Switzerland serves as a model for how a polity can manage linguistic and cultural diversity while maintaining strong internal cohesion and direct democratic participation.
- Quote paper
- Dominik Kirchdorfer (Author), 2013, Rethinking the European Union, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/262538
