The Future of Europe
Towards a Two-Speed EU?

Candid exploration of what Europe needs to do to overcome current crises, by a leading figure in the European Union.

Jean-Claude Piris (Author)

9781107021372, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 22 December 2011

178 pages, 6 b/w illus.
21.6 x 14 x 1.1 cm, 0.36 kg

'We are indebted to Jean-Claude Piris for posing hard and important questions about the current European Union. His analysis has enriched our understanding of what a two-speed European Union means, how it might be attained and its distinctiveness from the multi-speed reality of the current European Union. He has energised debate and this review should be seen as part of the discourse.' Paul Craig, European Law Review

The European Union is in crisis. Public unease with the project, Euro problems and dysfunctional institutions give rise to the real danger that the European Union will become increasing irrelevant just as its member states face more and more challenges of a globalised world. Jean-Claude Piris, a leading figure in the conception and drafting of the EU's legal structures, tackles the issues head on with a sense of urgency and with candour. The book works through the options available in light of the economic and political climate, assessing their effectiveness. By so doing, the author reaches the (for some) radical conclusion that the solution is to permit 'two-speed' development: allowing an inner core to move towards closer economic and political union, which will protect the Union as a whole. Compelling, critical and current, this book is essential reading for all those interested in the future of Europe.

Introduction
1. The continuing need for a strong EU in the foreseeable future
2. An assessment of the present situation of the EU
3. First option: substantially revising the EU treaties
4. Second option: continuing on the present path while developing further closer cooperation
5. Third option: politically progressing towards a two-speed Europe
6. Fourth option: legally building a two-speed Europe
Conclusion.

Subject Areas: Laws of Specific jurisdictions [LN], Law [L], Politics & government [JP]