Neofunctionalism: A Success Story?

Abstract

Integration is one of the political catchphrases of the late 20th and the beginning of the 21st century. This paper will focus on the theoretical and practical role of neofunctionalism as an integrative theory in the process of European integration. Neofunctionalism will be critically analyzed regarding the margin and possibilities of its practical implementation in the integration process; furthermore, it shall be established how recent economic developments have been affecting the debate on integration at European level. It should be stressed that, due to its practical implementation at EU level, neofunctionalism is not merely a theoretical approach, but a phenomenon whose short term outcomes in real politics can be analyzed evaluating the actual situation of integrative processes. The main objective of this short analysis will be to determine the reciprocate influences of neofunctionalist theory and affiliated institutions within the integration process towards each other.