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From causes to consequences: Investigating the effects of differentiated integration on citizens’ EU support

Author

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  • Ioannis Vergioglou

    (Center for Comparative and International Studies, 27219ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland)

  • Sven Hegewald

Abstract

Research on differentiated integration has paid considerable attention to its causes. However, we know very little about its consequences. Using the synthetic control method and interactive factor models, this article investigates the effects of differentiated integration on citizens’ support for the EU. We find that in cases where member states are granted an opt-out or are allowed to integrate into a policy area they were previously excluded from, support increases. In contrast, support decreases when member states are not granted a requested opt-out or are excluded from a policy area they would like to join. These findings carry important implications for the EU's legitimacy. While differentiated integration has the potential to enhance citizens’ legitimacy perceptions, it can also undermine them simultaneously.

Suggested Citation

  • Ioannis Vergioglou & Sven Hegewald, 2023. "From causes to consequences: Investigating the effects of differentiated integration on citizens’ EU support," European Union Politics, , vol. 24(1), pages 206-224, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:eeupol:v:24:y:2023:i:1:p:206-224
    DOI: 10.1177/14651165221135742
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Frank Schimmelfennig & Dirk Leuffen & Catherine E De Vries, 2023. "Differentiated integration in the European Union: Institutional effects, public opinion, and alternative flexibility arrangements," European Union Politics, , vol. 24(1), pages 3-20, March.
    2. Lisanne De Blok & Catherine E. De Vries, 2023. "A blessing and a curse? Examining public preferences for differentiated integration," European Union Politics, , vol. 24(1), pages 143-163, March.
    3. Liesbet Hooghe & Gary Marks, 2023. "Differentiation in the European Union and beyond," European Union Politics, , vol. 24(1), pages 225-235, March.

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