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The geopolitical fractures that have been accentuated by the return of Trump to the White House and the imperative of reforming the European growth model towards sustainability are reshaping the relations between Member State governments and the EU.
Many scholars and policy makers tend to see ‘more Europe’ as a necessity for delivering on common priorities, but doubts remain as to the political viability of a supranational approach. In other words, issues of subsidiarity are back in play. Are the objectives of a European Public Goods (EPGs) framework best achieved at the European level – as a matter of both execution and financing – or ‘by aggregation’, thus leaving national authorities in charge? The clash between these two perspectives is clearly visible in the currently ongoing debate on the EU Multiannual Budget 2028-34.
This seminar will take a fresh look at subsidiarity in an effort to better apprehend the continually evolving relationship between the EU and Member States, where, contrary to the classic fiscal federalism, the ‘horizontal’ division of tasks is being replaced (or complemented) by “vertical” coordination between the two institutional levels. Rethinking subsidiarity is central to creating ‘policy space’ for Europe to achieve common priorities by moving away from a narrow focus on spending towards the consistent management of budget with regulation and coordination as fundamental tools for efficient and equitable governance.
The seminar is held under Chatham House rule
