In the realm of political science, two types of legitimacy are often distinguished: process legitimacy and output legitimacy. Process legitimacy is crucial for democracies, while output legitimacy is more relevant for international organizations. In a democracy, a decision is considered legitimate if it arises from a well-informed process of deliberation. On the other hand, in technocratic settings, results hold more weight than the processes leading to them.
The European Union (EU) has traditionally derived its legitimacy from its set objectives and achieved outcomes rather than the decision-making processes it follows. This approach has led to criticism for being detached from the will of the people. However, over time, the European Parliament has gained recognition as a co-legislator alongside the Council of ministers. Despite these changes, citizens still struggle to perceive the EU as a cohesive political entity.
As the EU faces pressing challenges in the next term, such as economic revitalization, defense against external threats, and enlargement plans, the need for decisive actions becomes apparent. Mario Draghi’s emphasis on stimulating productivity and integrating markets to boost household budgets highlights the necessity for a transformative shift in European integration.
Restoring household budgets
To ensure lasting improvements in living standards, Europe must leverage its market size by enhancing productivity and fostering innovation. These measures are crucial for addressing the economic decline in comparison to the United States and preparing for future challenges such as Russian aggression and potential EU enlargement.
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