Abstract
The European identity is a necessity in the European Union. As the organization is becoming closer to a new governmental structure, the participation of the people is more needed in the process. Traditionally the European integration has been decided by the governments of the member states plus some influence of the European institutions, without the participation of the European citizens. The main part of the sovereignty was hold by the member states and hence there was no need for the participation of the people. Currently the Union is reaching a point where the sovereignty is being shared in the common forums that are the European institutions, as the European Parliament or the European Commission. Democracy is the main pillar of the political system of Europe, and any new form of government should include it. The people in order to participate in the political system needs to identify themselves with it, needs to find common roots to collaborate with each other in the society. Previously this identification was done through the concept of nation, a community of citizens who shared common values and culture. This article describes the current situation of the common European identity, basic for the proper working of the democratic system in the European level, and proposes different measures in order to increase the cohesion between the people of Europe.
Highlights
Research in the area of European identity has developed in recent years in two completely different directions with little contact between them
There has been a number of theoretical approaches and standards focused in the definition of the concept of European identity, yet unproven empirically with public opinion data ( Orchard, 2002 )
According to neo-functionalism this will create a European identity in economic terms, helping to create the European identity in cultural terms
Summary
Research in the area of European identity has developed in recent years in two completely different directions with little contact between them. According to neo-functionalism this will create a European identity in economic terms, helping to create the European identity in cultural terms The problem with this theory is the multifunctional approach to the European Building process and the creation of other institutions, such as the European Council, where the member states are represented, where the national interests of the member states are protected. The process of legislation is started by the European Commission, but the Council and the European Parliament have the last say, and they can change the original proposal substantially In this game of power, the Council almost always has the upper hand, becoming the central institution of the European Union and blocking the transfer of loyalty from the national level to the European level, delaying the creation of a European identity. One of the most successful lobby agencies dedicated to the car industry has declared in the Financial Times via his chief executive that their success resides in the lobbying done in the capitals of the member states before the meetings of the European Council, and not in Brussels
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
