Introduction

The European Union has never been a simple, uncontested institution; there have been a series of disputes and debates within society and academia. The aim of this section is to give a series of detailed accounts with regards to these debates in the context of European Integration. 

Democratic Deficit

Main Article: The Democratic Deficit

This article examines what the democratic deficit is defined as whilst also looking at its institutional presence as well as the democratic deficit between citizens and the European Union's Institutions and what the proposed solutions to takle the deficit are.

Communication and Identity

Main Article: Communication and Identity

Due to historic cultural and social differences, frictions have been present within the EU. Although progress may be occurring, many still cling on to their original sovereign identity. Also, the EU as an actor can be accused of suffering from an identity crisis of its own.

Enlargement

Main Article: Enlargement

As the European Union has gained momentum it has managed to expend well beyond its initial borders. This section deals with the issues related to such enlargements, some still remaining to this day.

Treaty Reform

Main Article: Treaty Reform

The article examines the Treaty of Lisbon (also known as the Reform Treaty), a treaty designed to streamline the workings of the European Union (EU) with amendments to the Treaty on European Union (TEU, Maastricht) and the Treaty establishing the European Community (TEC, Rome). The stated aim of the treaty is "to complete the process started by the Treaty of Amsterdam and by the Treaty of Nice with a view to enhancing the efficiency and democratic legitimacy of the Union and to improving the coherence of its action."

This page examines the impact that the Treaty of Lisbon will have on the European Union, and highlights the main debates on whether the Treaty should come into effect.