Euroscepticism and the Future of Europe

EU3D researchers John Erik Fossum, Zdzislaw Mach and Natasza Styczyńska have contributed with chapters on Norway and Poland in the book Euroscepticism and the Future of Europe.

About the book

Euroscepticism and the Future of Europe sheds light on how the increasing prominence of Eurosceptic and nationalist parties is having an impact on the thinking of mainstream parties, their representatives in the European Parliament, and the future of Europe. It provides perspectives on the future of the European project from authors in all the EU Member States, as well as neighbouring European countries and potential applicant nations.

With many Eurosceptic parties now in national government or exerting influence over the national debate, this book maps and analyses the nature and impact of Euroscepticism and nationalism in the different party systems of Europe. As national political parties are the gatekeepers of the process of political representation, they play a pivotal role in mobilizing civil society and in setting the political agenda. They shape politics at a national level, but also determine the way in which Europe plays out—or does not play out—as a political issue. Thus, it is from the national capitals that the very future of Europe emerges.

Norway: Outside, But … 

Norway has held two popular referendums on EU membership. In both instances, a small majority of the population turned it down. The question of EU membership has figured as one of, if not, the most politically divisive issues in Norway. Nevertheless, Norway’s approach has been to seek as close an EU association as is possible for a non-member. What is particularly puzzling is that the present situation of extensive and dynamic Europeanisation has evoked little political conflict and controversy. The question is whether Brexit will affect this situation.

Poland: Economic Enthusiasts, Value Adversaries 

Having a right-wing Eurosceptic coalition in power led by Law and Justice party (PiS) might come as a surprise because Poles are one of the most pro-European societies in the EU. According to recent opinion polls, 91 per cent of Polish society declare to be positive about EU membership, and only 5 per cent think Poland shouldn’t be part of the EU.

Full info

John Erik Fossum
Norway: Outside, But …

Zdzislaw Mach and Natasza Styczyńska
Poland: Economic Enthusiasts, Value Adversaries

In: Euroscepticism and the Future of Europe. Views from the Capitals
Michael Kaeding, Johannes Pollak and Paul Schmidt (eds)

Palgrave Macmillan, Cham, 2020
ISBN: 978-3-030-41271-5 (print) / 978-3-030-41272-2 (online)
DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-41272-2_27

 

Project

Published Mar. 17, 2021 9:05 AM - Last modified Sep. 1, 2022 10:48 AM