Transnational dynamics in European politics: actors, arenas, and practices

Abstract

This panel explores how transnational dynamics shape the electoral, institutional and societal dimensions of European politics. While EU studies have long centred on national governments and EU institutions, growing attention is being given to cross-border interactions among political parties, legislatures, civil society and citizens. These transnational practices raise important questions about how democratic politics function in the EU and how representation is constructed in political arenas that cross national boundaries. The panel welcomes research that examines the evolution, mechanisms, and consequences of transnational political organisation, cooperation, contestation, mobilisation and representation. Potential areas of focus include: - Parties and elections: Europeanisation of party organisations; coordination within Europarties; transnational party funding; cross-border electoral campaigns during European Parliament elections, and transnational electoral ties between parties. - Legislative organisation: collaboration between national MPs and MEPs; interparliamentary forums and parliamentary diplomacy; joint scrutiny of EU decision-making. - Partisanship and ideology: formation of transnational partisan alliances; diffusion of ideological positions; coordination of policy platforms across member states. - Citizens and representation: debates on transnational electoral lists; mechanisms for representing cross-border constituencies or European publics; cross-border voting rights; the European Citizens’ Initiative. - Civil society and activism: transnational advocacy networks; transnational civic mobilisation around salient issues; emergence of European public spheres. By bringing together research on transnational dynamics in EU politics, this panel seeks to deepen our understanding of European integration as a multi-layered process that challenges traditional notions of democracy and representation. We are open to a variety of theoretical and methodological perspectives. We particularly welcome contributions from diverse scholars and aim to create an inclusive and respectful environment for all participants.

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