The Pan-European Union Interpretation of Symbols and Myths

This paper ask the question: What roles do the interpretation and use of symbols and myths by pan-EU non-state actors play in the processes of European integration? Our point of departure is that the roles of symbols and myths are crucial for our understanding of both how the EU becomes constituted as a political reality and how the integration process itself occurs. This paper aims to advance European integration research by investigating how both symbolic and mythical constructions in European societies feed into European integration. Almost certainly, collective European symbols and myths are fundamental to our understanding of issues such as European social solidarity, political advocacy for and resistance to European integration, and concrete political actions.

For the purpose of this paper, we explore myths and symbols associated with the ‘EUROPE 2020: A European strategy for smart, sustainable and inclusive growth’ (Commission 2010), adopted in early 2010. The significance and potential of the 2020 strategy for the EU’s political economy is clear. What makes the 2020 strategy especially interesting for this study is that it draws upon and feed into a number of symbols and myths about European integration including ‘green Europe’ and ‘social Europe. In our exploration of how pan-EU non-state actors feed into and receive symbols and myths about European integration, we have a special focus on members of the Platform of the European Social NGOs and the European Environmental Bureau. Four differing theoretical perspectives from rationalism, constructivism, critical theory and post-structuralism provide a framework for analysis.