Much ado about opt-out? The Impact of variable geometry in the external dimension of the AFSJ

Flexibility might be convenient when it comes to accommodating member states’ differing socio-economic and political interests in an expanding EU. Yet, opt-outs, enhanced cooperation and cooperation between member states outside the EU’s legal framework are calling into question the boundaries of this constitutional, institutional and legal differentiation in an EU that is founded on common principles, with a specific legal order and common institutions. This new CEPS book analyses the various means by which differentiation is shaped in the realm of EU external action. The contributors offer a kaleidoscopic view of legal constructs and policy aspects of differentiation in EU external action, namely the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP), Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) and the external dimension of the Area of Freedom, Security and Justice (AFSJ).

Journal/Publisher: Centre for European Policy Studies (CEPS)

Publication type: Book chapter

Number of pages/Page range: 75-102

Language/s (content): English

Date of publication: 02-01-14

Personal data

Full name Claudio MATERA

Current occupation Member

University/Institution University of Twente

Address Drienerlolaan 5

Postal code NL-7500 AE Ensch

Email c.matera@utwente.nl