THE EUROSСEPTICISM INFLUENCE ON THE EU INSTITUTIONS’ FUNCTION

Abstract

Annotation. This article examined the indications of Euroscepticism in the EU institution. In particular, it analysed elements of opposition to the EU in the European Council, the European Commission, the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union, and in other EU subsidiary bodies. I paid considerable attention to studying the political views of the Heads of State and Government of the European Council. The study found leaders of mostly Central and Eastern European countries have ties to Russia and criticise the organisation's policies that weaken integration, although are members pro-European parties. Much attention has been drawn to the ideology of political parties and groups that are members of the European Parliament. Looking at the research, the number of Eurosceptics in the European Parliament has not decreased, but there is no strengthening of communication and cooperation between them. This means the level of Euroscepticism in parliament declined. Besides, it described the political views of the commissioners and their commitment to the ideas of Euroscepticism. As a result, the European Commission remains the most pro-European institution. The article also considered Euroscepticism in the EU Council. Hence, Member States have doubts about the EU policies that slow down cooperation. However, it is difficult to argue about the rise of Euroscepticism in the EU institutions and its negative impact on strengthening cooperation. European integration is a rather complex process, influenced not so much by Euroscepticism as by the economic situation, the unification of legislation, and international relations. Euroscepticism in the institutions is not a threat to European integration, but only as a factor which slows down cooperation and promotes adaptation states and their citizens.