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No Representation without Integration! Why Differentiated Integration Challenges the Composition of the European Parliament

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  • Max Heermann
  • Dirk Leuffen

Abstract

This article provides a normative assessment of parliamentary representation in fields of differentiated integration in the European Union. Based on three criteria of legitimate democratic representation, autonomy, accountability and equality, we evaluate four alternative representation models. These models comprise (I) complete representation of all members of the European Parliament (MEPs), (II) insider representation through the creation of new, regime‐specific assemblies, and (III) partial representation without and (IV) with inclusive deliberative stages. We find that the current system of complete representation, while honouring the principle of equality, violates autonomy and accountability in areas of differentiated integration. We therefore advocate a model of partial representation: MEPs elected in opt‐out states should not take part in EP voting but should be invited to participate in the deliberative stages of parliamentary decision‐making. This reconciles the principles of autonomy, accountability and equality, at least as long as there is no truly European electoral system in place.

Suggested Citation

  • Max Heermann & Dirk Leuffen, 2020. "No Representation without Integration! Why Differentiated Integration Challenges the Composition of the European Parliament," Journal of Common Market Studies, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 58(4), pages 1016-1033, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:jcmkts:v:58:y:2020:i:4:p:1016-1033
    DOI: 10.1111/jcms.13015
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Berthold Rittberger, 2014. "Integration without Representation? The European Parliament and the Reform of Economic Governance in the EU," Journal of Common Market Studies, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 52(6), pages 1174-1183, November.
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    3. Roger Scully & Simon Hix & David M. Farrell, 2012. "National or European Parliamentarians? Evidence from a New Survey of the Members of the European Parliament," Journal of Common Market Studies, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 50(4), pages 670-683, July.
    4. Claus-Dieter Ehlermann, 1995. "Increased Differentiation or Stronger Uniformity," EUI-RSCAS Working Papers 21, European University Institute (EUI), Robert Schuman Centre of Advanced Studies (RSCAS).
    5. Abdul Ghafar Noury & Simon Hix & Gérard Roland, 2007. "Democratic politics in the European Parliament," ULB Institutional Repository 2013/7744, ULB -- Universite Libre de Bruxelles.
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