Conclusion : the European integration of core state powers : patterns and causes

Abstract

This conclusion summarizes the results of the empirical chapters in light of the concepts and hypotheses of the introductory chapter. It proceeds in two steps. First, it maps and compares patterns, extent, and dynamics of integration across three areas of core state power – military security, fiscal policy, and public administration. Important findings include a steady progress of integration in all three areas despite profound differences in the extent of integration across them, a preponderance of integration by regulation, great variation in the mix of stealthy and public modes of integration, and a close affinity between core state powers and differentiated integration. Second, it confronts these findings with the hypotheses of the Introduction. The findings offer general support for the hypotheses but also add important nuances. They suggest, for instance, that the demand and the supply of integration are less neatly separated in core state powers than in the context of market integration where the demand-supply model of integration was initially conceived. The final part of this conclusion explores implications for the nature of the EU polity.