European solidarity and social class: an uneasy alliance

Ciornei, Irina; Hernández Sánchez, Alfredo

doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/07036337.2024.2318550

European solidarity and social class: an uneasy alliance

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Ciornei I, Hernandez A. European solidarity and social class: an uneasy alliance. J Eur Integr. 2024;46(4):521-44. DOI: 10.1080/07036337.2024.2318550

Abstract

In response to various crises and a growing Eurosceptic electorate, the European Union (EU) has taken steps to implement solidarity measures aimed at mitigating economic risks and inequalities among member states and their citizens. However, the social basis of support for such redistributive policies in a supranational context remains largely unexplored, despite the ongoing relevance of social class for crucial political outcomes related to European integration.To address this gap, this article distinguishes between transnational and member state solidarity, scrutinizing how the post-industrial division of social classes shapes these two dimensions of European solidarity. The research reveals that the post-industrial structure of social classes, significantly affects both forms of European solidarity, independent of attitudes toward redistribution and European integration. Furthermore, it highlights the transformative potential of supranational redistribution in fostering political support and social cohesion among production workers manifesting exclusive national identities.