The role of civil society in European integration: A framework for analysis

The article explores how civil society is being used as a mediating device in relation to European integration. The increasing use of civil society NGOs in a productive relationship in the policy-making process and as a way of reducing the alienation and ‘democratic deficit’ amongst EU citizens is discussed. The article acknowledges that, while the concept of civil society remains contested, there are certain implications that need to be drawn from its contemporary resurgence: namely the need for wider political dialogue and institutional frameworks that reflect greater political participation. The traditional dominance of economic interests remains negligible of this, however, in spite of pronouncements by the Parliament and, particularly the European Commission that ‘third sector’ organisations will have a greater say and influence on EU policy. The paper concludes that many of the social concerns expressed by NGOs remain largely unheard or unacknowledged by European policy-makers.