European Federalism and the Unique Achievements of the EU
What is European Federalism? What is the final goal of European Integration?
History of European Federalism and Integration Heritage of war and destruction Integration of Europe as a way how to tame nationalism It was unclear how far should the integration go
Ways used to achieve deaper integration within EU institutions (to weaken the national states) Supranational principle in the EU institutions - EU parliament - EU commission Ways to weaken national states - strengthen the center (Brussels) - strengthen the regions within states
Uniqueness of the EU Project – What It achieved No comparison of similar integration today or in the history in general Successful sharing of the competencies by states and the EU Bigger states are made equal with small states
Some Remarkable Achievements of the EU It have preserved peace for 60 years and counting Freedom to live, study or work anywhere Structural funds – helping the poorer regions Cross-border emergency cooperation
Despite this remarkable achievements, the process of integration is in crisis “The EU has been a success in ensuring cooperation between member states – but less so in integrating European peoples” Discussion: How could you explain that?