Vom Populismus zur Europäisierung: Erfahrungen mit Griechenland
From Populism to Europeanization: Greek Experiences

Summary/Abstract: New member states of the European Union are challenged by populist as well as nationalist and even extremist tendencies. What we can observe today has been already a phenomenon when Greece joined the European Community in 1981. The 1980s were characterized by a Greek government which presented itself as part of the liberation movements fighting against imperialism and capitalism. The EC suffered from headaches as the new member state dissociated itself from important decisions which had to be taken by consensus. Twenty years later Greece seems to have changed substantially. People increasingly favour European integration and the government pursues a pro-European path. Three factors seem to be of importance: The Greek economy has been stabilized and has found its place in the internal market of the EU. The political system and culture have been consolidated. And the EU has helped its less developed countries by expanding its structural policy which has directed substantial financial transfers to peripheral countries. Based on these experiences the EU has developed the policy of conditionality. Conditionality, however, is limited in its effects and fades away as soon as states join the EU. Subsequently, processes of Europeanization can help to overcome populist tendencies. But as shown by the Greek case one must be aware that it will take decades and not only years.

• Details
• Contents