Introduction

The introduction sets out the underlying analytical framework structuring the various contributions to the volume. It outlines an innovative approach to the study of Europeanisation, stressing the cyclical nature of the process and the interaction of top down, horizontal and bottom up dynamics. The gaps in the current literature is highlighted, and the value of paying closer attention to the role of social actors in Europeanisation processes is explained. The final section of the introduction describes how the volume is structured, pointing out how the different chapters address the research gap identified above. It poses two guiding questions which will be addressed by the volume: 1. Under which conditions are actors on the societal level in the member states socialised into European policy-making? And 2. When and how do they adapt their strategies on the national level in order to include the European Union as an additional tool for creating pressure