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Divergence Tendencies in the European Integration Process: A Danger for the Sustainability of the E(M)U?

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  • Linda Glawe

    (Faculty of Economics, University of Hagen, 58084 Hagen, Germany)

  • Helmut Wagner

    (Faculty of Economics, University of Hagen, 58084 Hagen, Germany)

Abstract

The European integration process started with the aim of reducing the differences in income and/or living standards between the participating countries over time. To achieve this, a certain alignment of institutions and structures was seen as a necessary precondition. While the goal of this income and institutional convergence was successfully achieved over a long period of time, this convergence development has weakened or even turned into divergence in the last one to two decades. This paper provides an overview of the empirical evidence for these convergence and divergence developments and develops policy implications (the challenges and possible ways out).

Suggested Citation

  • Linda Glawe & Helmut Wagner, 2021. "Divergence Tendencies in the European Integration Process: A Danger for the Sustainability of the E(M)U?," JRFM, MDPI, vol. 14(3), pages 1-22, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jjrfmx:v:14:y:2021:i:3:p:104-:d:511017
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    3. Jorge SÁ & Ana Lúcia LUÍS, 2022. "Within Economic Blocks, Countries And States Tend To Diverge (Not Converge)," Regional and Sectoral Economic Studies, Euro-American Association of Economic Development, vol. 22(2), pages 37-44.

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