The Politics of Differentiated Integration: What do Governments Want? Country Report - Spain

Abstract

What has been the Spanish government’s position towards Differentiated Integration (DI) with the European Union? Using a mixed method research design, we analyse official speeches, parliamentary debates, and election platforms to find that Spain has demonstrated a steady and robust support of further integration in the European Union. Analyses reveal that Spain is hesitant of pursuing DI not because of Eurosceptic motives, but rather because it fears to be left in the ‘second tier’ of European integration. When support for DI is voiced, it is because it is seen as way to pursue further integration despite the hesitance of more Eurosceptic states.

Keywords: Spain, Differentiated Integration, European Politics, Policy, Enhanced Cooperation.