One Size Does Not Fit All: European Integration by Differentiation
The need for reform of the EU is urgent. The authors of this Policy Brief by Bruegel suggest a new governance model, combining a ‘bare-bones EU’ with a 'Europe of clubs'. Such a reform would offer scope for broad membership without stalling the process of integration for those who seek it. Maria Demertzis, Jean Pisani-Ferry, Thomas Weiser et al suggest that a strong ‘bare-bones EU’ should be formed by the single market, trade and related policies, the European institutions, treaties, rule of law and a commitment to EU values. Three policy areas would be moved into ‘clubs’: economic and monetary union; Schengen arrangements and asylum policy; and foreign security policy and neighbourhood policy. Club membership would be optional, but countries would have to accept the rules of membership and high hurdles to leaving. Finally a ring of friends would surround the bare-bones EU, based on close economic relationships and some elements of multilateral discussion but no formal votes.
http://bruegel.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/PB-2018_03_final3.pdf />
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