Globalisation, European integration and the changing role of farmers in the CAP

Abstract

This thesis explores the changing role of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), one of the biggest stumbling blocks to European integration, enlargement, and multilateral trade agreements. Marjoleine Hennis offers a unique perspective by focusing on the interaction between European integration and domestic politics. She analyzes the different levels of policymaking in the EU and applies a comparative analysis of interest intermediation in three important member states: France, Germany, and the Netherlands. Utilizing a political economy lens, the author draws a comprehensive picture of the structural changes in European agricultural policymaking by tracing the impact of globalization and the related changes in European regulation on the key actors in the CAP. Illuminating the dynamics and apparent contradictions of the CAP, this study offers valuable perspective on the contours of future European integration.