On democracy in Europe and democratization of Europe (original) (raw)

The paper discusses the future of democracy in Europe as inherently linked to the democratization of European institutions, primarily the European Union (EU). It highlights a significant "democratic deficit" where EU structures do not adequately represent or engage with citizens, resulting in tension among member states, especially regarding monetary unification and Eastern enlargement. The author critiques the EU's inefficient consociational democracy and calls for a more accountable system that reconciles national interests and enhances legitimacy, ultimately arguing that true democratization within the EU is still in its infancy.