Germany, France and the integration of Europe. A realist interpretation

Summary:

This study sets out to explain the evolution of European integration from a realist point of view, one of the two competing paradigms within international relations theory. Its aim is to examine how far a realist theory can take us in the direction of explaining central features of regionalism in the European region. It suggests that the case of European integration can only be explained in realist terms by rediscovering and revising classical realism with its emphasis on ideas and historical learning.

A natural point of departure for a realist analysis of European integration is to concentrate on the major powers and their interests. In this context the role of France and Germany in fostering European integration is often noted. The empirical section of the book tries to assess whether France and Germany do in fact play the leading role in EU politics and asks why and how France and Germany try to lead the process of European unification. The book concentrates on the constitutive negotiations on the Single European Act in 1985 and the negotiations on the Maastricht Treaty in 1991, whilst putting the Franco-German role in European integration in a wider context.