Targeting source and addressing plurality in European Union legitimacy

Procedure versus substance

Abstract

Legitimacy is defined as a justification to exercise governance or authority over a body of citizens. It is argued that the same standards of legitimacy that apply to States cannot be applicable at the level of the European Union. However, the European Union carries out State like functions and is involved in governance. The question of its legitimacy therefore needs to be addressed. In seeking to enhance its legitimacy the European Union has focused mainly on procedural means.