Developments in West European Politics 2, 2nd ed.

Book abstract:

'Developments in West European Politics 2' is a new edited collection of chapters from a range of academics across Europe writing about 'political' issues facing the area.

The starting point for the contributors is the recognition that Western Europe is experiencing a period of accelerating change and that the nation state continues to represent a potent force in West European politics. The focus of the volume is on how states in Western Europe have been affected by the many changes which are taking place.

The chapters are divided into four broad areas: What is the impact of the global and European context on the state's functioning and ability to deliver welfare and security?; Does the state still command the loyalty of its citizens?; Can and do state institutions deliver effective governance?; Can the state rise to such challenges as the internationalisation of crime, new patterns of migration and environmental sustainability.

Specific chapters deal with subjects such as nationalism and collective identities, participation and voting, party systems, extremist movements, organised interests, political corruption, territorial politics and the new regionalism, environmental challenges, the information society, immigration policies and crime.

The overall conclusion is that West European states have proven highly resilient in the face of the challenges. The capacities and competencies of states have evolved, and are continuing to, over time. But the specific combination of territorial organisation and popular sovereignty in the West European state model remains a bulwark for legitimacy, stability, security and innovation.

Note that this volume is not simply an updated edition of 'Developments in West European politics' published in 1997. It is a new collection of chapters with a largely new range of contributors.