Accountability in the European Union [Hardcover]

This important new book approaches the issue of democratic deficit from the angle of accountability, today seen as an essential element of democratic government. It looks at differing understandings of the concept in the EU Member States and at various techniques - political, legal, and managerial - by which accountability can be assured. These include the EU Parliament as well as national parliaments but extend to less familiar institutions, such as the European Court of Auditors.

Introduction
1: Thinking About Accountability
2: Some Accident Blackspots
3: The Power House
5: Accountability through Audit
6: Accountability through Law
Introduction
1. Prelude: A Commission at Bay
2. Thinking About Accountability
3. Accountability and the Architecture of the European Union
4. Accountability Through Audit
5. Parliaments and Accountability: The European Parliament
6. Accountability in National Parliaments
Conclusions

The Book is challenging and highly informative, attractively written, full of incisive aper?us and serves as a very useful introduction to this vital and visceral aspect of the Union's development. The presentation is to the point, constructive and deftly delivered.
--Public Law

Carol Harlowis Professor of Law at the London School of Economics and Political Science where she specializes in public law and public law of the European Union.