Euroscepticism and the Future of Europe - Views from the Capitals
POLLAK Johannes , KAEDING Michael , SCHMIDT Paul
Product details
- Categories: October 2020, Euroscepticisme
- Publisher: Springer International Publishing
- ISBN: 9783030412715
- Publication Date: 01/10/2020
- Binding: Paperback
- Number of pages: 174
- Language: English
Summary
"The European Parliament elections in May
2019 did not bring about the rise of populism in Europe that had been
feared by many. Instead, while populism was contained, a broad
pro-European majority emerged that today carries the new European
Commission with its ambitious green, digital and geopolitical agenda.
However, Euroscepticism remains a significant force to be reckoned with
in national and EU-policy making. The present book offers a better
understanding of the different types of Euroscepticism that exist across
Europe. It also shows that Euroscepticism is best addressed by
understanding well the often valid concerns that are at the origins of
Eurosceptic forces. If this is done in time, Euroscepticism is not
something to be afraid of. It is part of a vibrant European democracy
that is resilient enough to embrace those who criticise the reality of
the European project with good arguments; and that stands ready to
develop and improve day by day to become a more perfect Union.”
- Martin Selmayr, Head of the European Commission’s representation in Austria
"This
book comes at the right time. European integration seems more contested
than ever, but is it really? This book answers this question by probing
into 40 shades of Euroscepticism, within and beyond the EU Member
States. It is a must read for academics and practitioners alike."
- Christine Neuhold, University of Maastricht, The Netherlands
"With
this book, the authors offer readers of European politics a treasure
trove, with valuable insights into the variety of populist and
nationalist forces that oppose mainstream European integration. Faced
with such a jumble of eurosceptic parties pursuing narrow and in many
cases reactionary agendas, the need for proper federal political parties
becomes self-evident. Only then will the diverse interests and
aspirations of citizens be given realistic expression at the EU level."
- Andrew Duff, President, The Spinelli Group
This
book sheds light on how the increasing prominence of Eurosceptic and
nationalist parties is having an impact on the thinking of mainstream
parties, their representatives in the European Parliament, and the
future of Europe. It is timed to coincide with the strategic vision of
Council, Commission, and Parliament, as well as the next phase of Brexit
negotiations. The book provides perspectives on the future of the
European project from authors in all the EU Member States, as well as
neighboring European countries and potential applicant nations.
Furthermore, it includes a Foreword by the Vice-president of the
European Parliament.
With many Eurosceptic parties now in
national government, or winning European elections and thus exerting
influence over the national debate, this book maps and analyses the
nature and impact of Euroscepticism—and new nationalist tendencies—in
the different party systems of Europe.
As national political
parties are the gatekeepers of the process of political representation,
they play a pivotal role in mobilizing civil society and in setting the
political agenda. They shape politics at a national level, but also
determine the way in which Europe plays out—or does not play out—as a
political issue. Thus, it is from the national capitals that the very
future of Europe emerges.