At a glance
Eurofederalism supports a European federation with constitutionally divided powers, combining shared European government with self-government for member states and other territorial levels.
Core principles
- Shared sovereignty
- democratic European institutions
- constitutional division of powers
- subsidiarity
- protection of rights
- cooperation beyond national government alone.
Origins & development
European federalist proposals predate the EU and gained influence through resistance movements and postwar efforts to prevent renewed conflict. Altiero Spinelli became an important advocate.
Economic outlook
Federal institutions could manage shared budgets, cross-border public goods and economic coordination. The doctrine does not determine whether the federation follows socialist, social-market or market-liberal policies.
Society & government
Democratic federalists seek accountable common institutions while preserving powers at national and regional levels. A federation differs from both a centralized unitary state and cooperation dependent solely on national vetoes.
Variations & related traditions
Gradual treaty reform and a new federal constitution represent different strategies. Pro-European cooperation need not imply federalism, and federalism within Europe does not prescribe unrestricted trade with every external partner.
Debates & criticisms
Debates concern popular consent, democratic distance, national identity, fiscal solidarity and the distribution of authority. Supporters argue shared institutions can govern cross-border problems more effectively.