Local Community, Power and European Integration

This insightful exploration of local Polish communities reveals their limited knowledge of the EU, while highlighting the importance of EU structural funds in shaping positive attitudes towards European integration.

The book Local Community, Power and European Integration presents a comprehensive analysis of the integration process experienced by six Polish local communities over a decade. The research highlights the ongoing challenges faced by these communities in understanding the European Union (EU) and its implications for local governance. Despite the passage of time since Poland's accession to the EU, the findings indicate that knowledge about EU structures and policies remains limited among local populations. However, the awareness and competence regarding EU structural funds have notably increased, suggesting that financial incentives play a crucial role in shaping public attitudes towards the EU.

The collection of articles stems from a project funded by the Polish National Science Centre (NCN), which aimed to assess the evolution of local perceptions and experiences related to EU integration. By revisiting the same communities studied a decade earlier, the authors provide valuable insights into how local identities and attitudes have shifted in response to Europeanization. While there has been some progress in understanding the benefits of EU membership, the construction of a cohesive European identity remains a complex issue, often hindered by a lack of engagement and awareness.

In Local Community, Power and European Integration, the authors argue that effective communication and education about the EU are essential for fostering a stronger sense of belonging among local citizens. The book emphasizes the need for ongoing dialogue and support to ensure that local communities can fully participate in the European integration process, ultimately contributing to a more unified and informed society.