Europe's Future: Decoupling and Reforming

Sergio Fabbrini suggests a way out of the EU's crises by proposing the decoupling and reforming of the EU into an economic community of the single market and a political union based on the eurozone reform. This would involve giving EU member states more decision-making autonomy while also reforming the EU's political structure to better address the challenges of the past decade.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 180 pages
\n Publication date: 14 March 2019
\n Publisher: Cambridge University Press
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Sergio Fabbrini offers a solution to the ongoing crises within the European Union (EU), which have resulted in a significant divide between sovereignist and Europeanist forces. The intergovernmental management of various crises over the past decade has created a rift in the fundamental rationale of Europe's integration project. Sovereignism, representing nationalistic and populist tendencies, has sought greater autonomy for EU member states in decision-making, while Europeanism has struggled to effectively counter this challenge.

Fabbrini proposes a novel approach to alleviate the EU from this predicament. He suggests the decoupling and reform of the EU into two distinct entities: the economic community of the single market, comprising the current EU member states and other interested parties seeking to join or rejoin it, and the political union, primarily based on the eurozone reformed according to an original model of the federal union.

The economic community of the single market would focus on maintaining and expanding the EU's single market, which is characterized by the free movement of goods, services, capital, and people within the EU. This community would strive to enhance economic cooperation, promote innovation, and ensure a level playing field for businesses and consumers.

On the other hand, the political union would aim to strengthen the EU's political and institutional framework. This union would involve a deeper integration of member states, including a common currency, a unified foreign policy, and a more robust central government. The political union would also prioritize the resolution of crises, such as financial instability and geopolitical challenges, through collective action and cooperation.

By implementing these reforms, Fabbrini believes the EU can overcome the current crises and emerge stronger and more unified. He argues that the decoupling and reform of the EU will allow member states to better manage their own affairs while also promoting greater cooperation and integration within the EU.

However, the proposal faces several challenges and criticisms. Some argue that the decoupling of the economic community from the political union could lead to increased economic and political fragmentation within the EU. Others question the feasibility of a common currency and a unified foreign policy, particularly in light of the diverse political and economic interests of member states.

Despite these challenges, Fabbrini remains optimistic about the potential of his proposal. He believes that by embracing a new perspective and taking bold steps towards reform, the EU can overcome the divisions and crises that have plagued it in recent years and emerge as a more prosperous and influential global player.

In conclusion, Sergio Fabbrini's proposal for the decoupling and reform of the EU offers a way forward in addressing the ongoing crises and divisions within the EU. By creating the economic community of the single market and the political union, Fabbrini aims to enhance economic cooperation, promote political integration, and address the challenges facing the EU. While the proposal faces challenges and criticisms, Fabbrini remains optimistic about its potential to bring about positive change and strengthen the EU's position in the world.

\n Weight: 284g\n
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 10 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781108723275\n \n