Coordination for the European Union: A Strong and Stable Institution

Mads Dagnis Jensen, Peter Nedergaard

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Abstract

The Danish EU coordination system is set up to secure a consensus-oriented and consistent positioning of Denmark in the EU decision-making process. It was established in connection with Danish membership in 1973, but it has roots that go further back. Over time, the Danish coordination system has undergone changes with increased decentralization to the sectoral ministries, through parliamentarization, and via increased transnationalization with linkages to the administrations in the EU and other EU member states. The system secures that the negotiators have a high degree of credibility in the eyes of other delegations, and it ensures a high score when it comes to implementation of EU legislation in Denmark. However, it also has some disadvantages. The key coordination lens in the form of the European Affairs Committee of the Danish Parliament is overloaded, and it is often involved too late in the Brussels negotiations. All in all, the Danish EU coordination system corresponds to the way the Danish political system works in other venues.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationThe Oxford Handbook of Danish Politics
EditorsPeter Munk Christiansen, Jørgen Elklit , Peter Nedergaard
Number of pages17
Place of PublicationOxford
PublisherOxford University Press
Publication date2020
Pages193-209
Chapter13
ISBN (Print)9780198833598
ISBN (Electronic)9780198833598
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2020

Keywords

  • EU coordination
  • Consensus
  • Special committees
  • European Affairs Committee
  • Parliament

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