What's Wrong with the Europe Union and How to Fix It

Simon Hix is a British political scientist and Harold Laski Professor of Political Science at the London School of Economics and Political Science.

• List of figures, tables and boxes viPreface ixList of abbreviations xi1. Introduction 12. Why the European Union is more necessary than ever 8PART I: THE DIAGNOSIS 293. Policy gridlock 314. Lack of popular legitimacy 505. A democratic deficit 67PART II: THE CURE 876. The case for ‘limited democratic politics’ in the EU 897. How the EU is ready for limited democratic politics 1108. Encouraging democratic politics in the EU 1379. A scenario: the 2009 European Commission President contest 16610. Conclusion and response to potential critiques 179Notes 193References 200Index 208

"An exciting, rigorous and compelling book. The fix of Hix makes much more sense than the Panglossians who want to do nothing or others who argue that all the EU's problems will be resolved with better PR and more procedural reforms." International Affairs "Hix's research makes a convincing case that left-right divisions have deeply penetrated policymaking in the parliament, the council and the commission. Missing is a contest for political power and policymaking between rival groups and policies, with clear winners and losers and a visible link between voting, leadership and outcome."Irish Times"[A] short and highly readable book, which began life as a series of policy papers written for the UK government."Ethics and International Affairs"Simon Hix's analysis is as authoritative as his case for reform is compelling. Reasoned, rigorous and riveting, this book is a must-read for all who care about the future of the European Union."Sir Stephen Wall"An exceptionally clear and provocative argument in favour of 'limited democratic politics' in the EU, showing precisely how it could be applied to the 2009 European elections."Michael Shackleton, Secretariat of the European Parliament"Simon Hix is among the leading political analysts of the European Union of his generation. Here he offers a critical yet balanced analysis of Europe's 'democratic deficit', linked to pragmatic proposals for reform. Whether one agrees or not, this slim and readable volume is required reading for anyone seriously concerned about the constitutional future and political legitimacy of Europe."Andrew Moravcsik, Princeton University