This commentary maps the European Citizens’ Initiatives (ECIs) that have fostered a Europe-wide debate and finds common characteristics among the campaigns that remained active following the period of collecting signatures. Despite campaigners’ fears that the current problems in implementing the instrument discourage its use, the authors find that the ECIs have contributed to cross-border communication and the exchange of knowledge among networks of actors.
EPIN Commentaries offer concise, policy-oriented insights into topical issues raised by the debate on the political integration of Europe.
Katja Tuokko is a Researcher at CEPS Energy Climate House. Justin Greenwood is Professor of European Public Policy at Robert Gordon University in Aberdeen.
