A test of European Union post-accession influence: comparing reactions to political instability in Romania

Gherghina, S. and Soare, S. (2016) A test of European Union post-accession influence: comparing reactions to political instability in Romania. Democratization, 23(5), pp. 797-818. (doi: 10.1080/13510347.2015.1020792)

Full text not currently available from Enlighten.

Abstract

The positive role of the European Union (EU) in the democratization process in post-communist countries has been amply documented. The pre-accession conditionality was to a large extent the tool used to enhance adoption of norms, and implementation of policy. In this context, it is less clear what happens after countries join the EU and conditionality is no longer an option. This article seeks to provide an answer by analysing how the EU can influence democratic governance after accession of a new member state. In particular, it focuses on the reactions of EU actors in two institutional conflicts (the 2007 and 2012 presidential impeachment referendums) in Romania. The main findings indicate how EU leverage on domestic politics remains possible, though the effectiveness of involvement, monitoring and evaluation of respect for democratic principles depends on a complex interaction of international and domestic actors.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Gherghina, Dr Sergiu
Authors: Gherghina, S., and Soare, S.
College/School:College of Social Sciences > School of Social and Political Sciences > Politics
Journal Name:Democratization
Publisher:Routledge (Taylor and Francis)
ISSN:1351-0347
ISSN (Online):1743-890X
Published Online:03 June 2015

University Staff: Request a correction | Enlighten Editors: Update this record