Immigration Article of the Day: Re-Emergence of Othering in Europe: A Threat to the European Integration by Tasawar Baig Karakoram and Mustafa Kemal Dağdelen

Re-emergence of Othering in Europe: A Threat to the European Integrationby Tasawar Baig Karakoram International University; Old Dominion Universityand Mustafa Kemal Dağdelen Old Dominion University – Graduate Program in International StudiesJanuary 31, 2013Journal of European Studies 29, no. 1 (Jan 2013): 1-21

Abstract: During the postwar period, the European Community evolved in the context of bilateral relations between West European countries. This facilitated synchronization between the Community’s objectives of integration and commitment toward institutionalization of transnational institutions for promoting trade and economic exchanges. The transition processes went through various stages to develop macro-level ‘imagined communities’ under the ‘policy of harmonization’ for the heterogeneous communities of Europe. The European Community which has now transformed into the European Union, reflects the common interests of member states and their respective populations. These interests are primarily derived from politico-economic conditions.However, the global financial crisis and the lack of a common cultural milieu has created a difficult situation. In fact, Europe is now trying to deal with the politics of phobias. Phobic notions are trying to reverse the pattern of cooperation which emerged with the end of the Second World War. With economic hardship there has been a reawakening of nationalistic fervour and the strengthening of ethno-political groups. The idea of the ‘other’ threatens to serve as a catalyst for divisiveness and disharmony, which could even lead to conflicts. The situation could damage the European Union built painstakingly. The main aim of this article is to study the phenomenon of the ‘other’ which could potentially threaten the unique regional structure of cooperation in the post-Westphalian era of ‘inter-state’ relations. In case the European institutions collapse, it would be like trying to put ‘Humpty-Dumpty Together Again’.

KJ