National Political Elites, European Integration and the Eurozone Crisis

This book explores the effects of the Eurozone crisis on national political elites' perceptions of the EU integration project, revealing significant shifts in legitimacy and support.

This book delves into the impact of the European financial, economic, and sovereign-debt crises on the legitimacy of the EU integration project, particularly as perceived by national political elites. It explores whether these crises have weakened the elite consensus that has historically supported the integration process, raising questions about the future of the EU in light of shifting political dynamics among member states. The analysis reveals how national political elites have responded to the crises, highlighting a potential erosion of support for the EU's foundational principles.

In the aftermath of the global financial crisis that began in 2008, there has been a notable increase in political disaffection among citizens. This discontent has manifested in a loss of trust in political institutions, a decline in the credibility of mainstream political parties, and the emergence of extremist or anti-system alternatives. The book provides a comparative examination of these trends, focusing on the evolution of attitudes among national political elites regarding the EU and its integration project.

National Political Elites, European Integration and the Eurozone Crisis ultimately seeks to illuminate the changing perceptions of the EU among national political elites and the implications for the future of European integration. By analyzing these shifts across various dimensions, the book addresses a critical question: How have recent crises influenced elite perceptions of the EU? It is a vital resource for scholars and students of political elites, EU politics, and comparative politics, as well as those interested in European studies and sociology.