Description
Book SynopsisThe European Union seems incapable of undertaking economic reforms and defining its place in the world. Public apathy towards the EU is also increasing, as citizens feel isolated from the institutions in Brussels and see no way to influence European level decisions.
Trade Review"An exciting, rigorous and compelling book. The fix of Hix makes much more sense than the Panglossians who want to do nothing or others who argue that all the EU's problems will be resolved with better PR and more procedural reforms."
International Affairs "Hix's research makes a convincing case that left-right divisions have deeply penetrated policymaking in the parliament, the council and the commission. Missing is a contest for political power and policymaking between rival groups and policies, with clear winners and losers and a visible link between voting, leadership and outcome."
Irish Times
"[A] short and highly readable book, which began life as a series of policy papers written for the UK government."
Ethics and International Affairs
"Simon Hix's analysis is as authoritative as his case for reform is compelling. Reasoned, rigorous and riveting, this book is a must-read for all who care about the future of the European Union."
Sir Stephen Wall
"An exceptionally clear and provocative argument in favour of 'limited democratic politics' in the EU, showing precisely how it could be applied to the 2009 European elections."
Michael Shackleton, Secretariat of the European Parliament
"Simon Hix is among the leading political analysts of the European Union of his generation. Here he offers a critical yet balanced analysis of Europe's 'democratic deficit', linked to pragmatic proposals for reform. Whether one agrees or not, this slim and readable volume is required reading for anyone seriously concerned about the constitutional future and political legitimacy of Europe."
Andrew Moravcsik, Princeton University
Table of ContentsList of figures, tables and boxes vi
Preface ix
List of abbreviations xi
1. Introduction 1
2. Why the European Union is more necessary than ever 8
PART I: THE DIAGNOSIS 29
3. Policy gridlock 31
4. Lack of popular legitimacy 50
5. A democratic deficit 67
PART II: THE CURE 87
6. The case for ‘limited democratic politics’ in the EU 89
7. How the EU is ready for limited democratic politics 110
8. Encouraging democratic politics in the EU 137
9. A scenario: the 2009 European Commission President contest 166
10. Conclusion and response to potential critiques 179
Notes 193
References 200
Index 208
