The European Union in Crisis: How Likely Is It That Germany Will Remain "Pro-European"?

Since 2010 at the latest, the European Union has been in a deep crisis, arguably the most profound since its inception more than 60 years ago. This paper will describe the various dimensions of the EU's crisis. In assessing how this crisis may play out, it will focus in particular on one prospective determining variable: the European policy of the Federal Republic of Germany, which numerous scholars meanwhile argue has developed into an (albeit 'reluctant') hegemonic power in the EU or at least the Euro zone. The paper will explore the extent to which regional political integration requires 'stabilizing' hegemonic leadership, to what extent Germany has provided such leadership during the current crisis, which variables facilitate or constrain its playing such a role, and how likely it is that Germany will remain fundamentally supportive of the integration process. A concluding section will broaden the analysis to include other factors likely to shape the outcome of the crisis.