Author: Xavier Vanden Bosch / Publishing Institution: EGMONT - The Royal Institute for International Relations

Author:: Xavier Vanden Bosch
Publication Date:: 03-2014
Content Type:: Policy Brief
Institution:: EGMONT - The Royal Institute for International Relations
Abstract:: In recent years much has been accomplished to make the EMU more resilient to banking crises, sovereign-debt crises or balance-of-payment crises. Several 'backstops' or financial safety nets were progressively put in place to absorb the shocks that could have otherwise broken the EMU as a system. These substantial advances reflected a gradual, trial-and-error approach rather than a grand design that would have completely overhauled the EMU architecture. While flexibility and realism have advantages, complacency is a clear risk. With no roadmap to follow, efforts to complete the architecture of the EMU may fade with time. Maintaining a sense of direction is crucial while potential vulnerabilities remain.
Topic:: Economics, International Trade and Finance, and Financial Crisis
Political Geography:: Europe

Author:: Stijn Verhelst and Xavier Vanden Bosch
Publication Date:: 03-2014
Content Type:: Policy Brief
Institution:: EGMONT - The Royal Institute for International Relations
Abstract:: This Policy Brief discusses the challenges that await policymakers in reforming the EMU. A balance between discipline and solidarity will have to be found, while institutional reforms should improve the eurozone's legitimacy and efficiency. The key decisions on EMU reforms will have to be made during the 2014-2019 parliamentary term, as the window of opportunity for major reforms is likely to be closed afterwards.
Topic:: Economics, Monetary Policy, Financial Crisis, and Reform
Political Geography:: Europe

Author:: Xavier Vanden Bosch
Publication Date:: 03-2014
Content Type:: Policy Brief
Institution:: EGMONT - The Royal Institute for International Relations
Abstract:: Given their limited involvement in EU affairs, the Belgian parliaments at the different levels of the Belgian federation barely contribute to the legitimation process of the EU's actions. In order to strengthen their role, not only should governmental communication towards parliaments be improved but parliamentary activities should also adapt to the confederal features of Belgium. The latter poses a unique challenge in Europe.
Topic:: Regional Cooperation and Reform
Political Geography:: Europe and Singapore

Author:: Xavier Vanden Bosch
Publication Date:: 09-2014
Content Type:: Working Paper
Institution:: EGMONT - The Royal Institute for International Relations
Abstract:: Despite renewed interest in an EU industrial policy, the concept remains particularly elusive because it has no universal definition. This paper relies on a broad and inclusive definition of industrial policy proposed by Warwick (in an OECD working paper) to provide a clearer picture of what the concept encompasses when applied to the EU. It therefore includes an original visual taxonomy of the EU policies that constitute industrial policy. It can serve as a guiding framework for reflecting on industrial policy in the EU.
Topic:: Economics, Industrial Policy, Political Economy, and Governance
Political Geography:: Europe

Author:: Xavier Vanden Bosch
Publication Date:: 01-2013
Content Type:: Policy Brief
Institution:: EGMONT - The Royal Institute for International Relations
Abstract:: Fiscal consolidation is essential to ensure the sustainability of euro zone countries' public debt. However, as a principle, consolidation should not be pursued at a pace unnecessarily undermining growth in the short term. Repeated downward revisions of growth call for the use of the flexibility foreseen in the EU fiscal framework. The Commission should adapt the deadlines for fiscal correction to prevent excessive, pro-cyclical adjustment in 2013. In turn, adequate surveillance and coordination must ensure structural adjustments constitute the core of fiscal consolidation plans.
Topic:: Debt, International Trade and Finance, Monetary Policy, and Reform
Political Geography:: Europe

Author:: Xavier Vanden Bosch
Publication Date:: 05-2013
Content Type:: Working Paper
Institution:: EGMONT - The Royal Institute for International Relations
Abstract:: Both the Commission's proposal for a 'Competitiveness and Convergence Instrument' and the 'contractual arrangement' presented by President Van Rompuy share a common concept: associating EU money with national structural reforms under a binding arrangement.
Topic:: Economics, Markets, Regional Cooperation, Labor Issues, Monetary Policy, and Reform
Political Geography:: Europe

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