The True Raison D'Être of the Open Method of Coordination

Abstract

This paper argues that the true raison d’etre of the open method of coordination is not its capacity to foster mutual learning, rather its iterative nature. To support this argument the paper first looks at the OMC itself to examine how it creates an iterative process and how it fosters mutual learning. Then it examines whether there exist relationships between actual changed national policies and the OMC’s iterative nature on the one hand and its capacity to organise learning on the other. The conclusion of the paper is, that for as far as the OMC is of influence on the member states’ policies, it is more likely to be the result of the OMC’s iterative nature than its capacity to organise mutual learning.