Zielonka's theory of the European Empire: A Challenge to Theory and Practice of European Integration

Authors

  • Katrina Murray

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.30722/anzjes.vol1.iss1.15068

Abstract

CESAA 16TH ANNUAL EUROPE ESSAY COMPETITION 2008 POSTGRADUATE CATEGORY

The emergence of new theory to account for the sui generis phenomenon of European integration has produced a myriad of responses, challenging traditional approaches and creating new debates. This essay analyses just one of these responses, that is Zielonka’s model of Europe as a polycentric neo-medieval empire. He argues that Europe is developing into a body with soft border zones, multiple identities, divided loyalties and sovereignties with a multiplicity of overlapping institutions. Although the suggestion of a flexible and pluralistic Europe is not a new one, the way in which Zielonka presents this concept as an original and inventive model for European governance is worthy of further research and debate.

 

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Published

2009-03-01

Issue

Vol. 1 No. 1 (2009)

Section

Articles

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