Metropolregionen gelten als Motoren ökonomischen Wachstums. Ihre politisch-administrativen Strukturen berücksichtigen die enge Verflechtung der Ballungsräume zumeist jedoch nicht. So kommt es, dass die Umlandgemeinden wirtschaftlich kraftvoller und politisch selbstbewusster geworden sind, während die Kernstädte durch die großräumige Zersiedelung zunehmend belastet werden. In sieben Fallstudien aus Israel und Deutschland analysiert der Band die Herausforderungen für eine Metropolenpolitik.
This book analyzes EU policies by examining the structures of the EU and its policy-making through specific research questions. It first explores whether the EU is characterized by a multi-level system and if this structure is consistent across various policy fields. If variations exist, it investigates whether these differences lead to distinct forms of policy-making. The book also seeks to identify common characteristics within the EU decision-making system across policies. Additionally, it examines the evolving role of societal actors, including civil society organizations, enterprises, and social partners, and their influence in different policy areas. Each article follows a similar structure, beginning with an introduction that addresses the challenges within the policy field and perceptions of these issues, often linked to the legal basis for political interventions outlined in treaties and specific institutional characteristics. This is followed by an analysis of the problems and the instruments used to address them. The subsequent section distinguishes between agenda-setting, policy formulation, and implementation. Finally, the book reflects on changes over time and concludes with a summary of the main findings from each chapter.
Focusing on participatory governance, the book challenges traditional views of democracy by advocating for a re-conceptualization of its meaning. It emphasizes the need to broaden our understanding of democratic practices beyond governmental frameworks, encouraging a deeper engagement in civic participation and collective decision-making.
