The Effects of the Structural Funds on Nationalist Movements in the European Union.
Abstract
The purpose of this thesis is to determine what effects the Structural Funds, the primary financial instruments by which the European Union pursues its regional policy, have had on nationalist movements in Community regions which are simultaneously nations and which have historically demonstrated a significant level of nationalism. Because of the multitude of nationalist movements in Western Europe, the focus of this investigation was limited to only two EU regions, Scotland and Flanders. Scotland and Flanders were chosen over all other regions for several reasons. First, Scotland exists within the most centralized state in the EU, i.e. Great Britain. Conversely, Belgium is a federal state. Second, Scotland is a poor region, whereas Flanders is 'rich'. Finally, both Scotland and Flanders are nations which are ethnically different from their host country. This investigation found that the Structural Funds have had an effect on nationalist movements in both regions. In Scotland, the Scottish National Party is using the Funds to discredit the ruling Conservative Party and to reinforce their position concerning an independent Scotland. In Flanders, the Structural Funds have prompted a nationalist reaction from the Flemish government and have indirectly led to greater support for the Vlaams Blok, a Flemish nationalist party.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADA321575
Entities
People
- Gerald O. Dorroh Jr
Organizations
- Indiana University Bloomington