The European Parliament and WMD Non-proliferation: Policy-Making Processes and Decision-Making Outcomes

Abstract:

This article analyses the institutional context of the European Parliament and its powers to influence European Union (EU) policy related to weapons of mass destruction (WMD) non-proliferation. It explores the ways in which the Parliament has influenced policy by using its consultative, budgetary and legislative powers and concludes that while the outcomes to date have been modest, the Parliament's enhanced legislative powers make it an important actor in fulfilling the EU's objectives related to WMD non-proliferation, if it can overcome key institutional constraints.