Κοινωνική Προεδρία, όπως κοινωνική Ευρώπη: η γοητεία της διατακτικής μεταρρύθμισης

Abstract

This paper discusses the contribution of interstate bargaining theories and rational choice institutionalism to the study of the EU Council Presidency. An attempt is also made at explaining variation in the Presidency’s actual influence across EU decision-making modes. The empirical analysis of 2003 Greek Presidency’s role and actions in the area of employment and social policy provides strong support to theoretical propositions. Thus, it makes evident that the approach of the Greek Presidency was overly shaped by national preferences for a social Europe, thereby reflecting a strong will to defend the domestic model of hesitant labour market and welfare state reform. Partly owing to that, the Greek Presidency did not manage to act as an effective broker, nor did it advance any constructive initiatives.