ABSTRACT
In the preceding chapters, we have seen how national political parties in six member states have adapted, or not adapted, to the institutions and processes of the European Union (EU). Some parties have changed organizationally to quite a significant degree, while others have barely changed at all. We have seen detailed accounts of the ways in which such change has, or has not, occurred, and of some of the consequences for intraparty power relations. We have also seen that variation is observable within national party systems. But we need now to lift our gaze from the national level and see whether this variation follows identifiable, cross-national patterns. Are, say, socialist parties more inclined to adapt to European integration? Are Eurosceptical parties, or those divided over the EU, less inclined to do so? Does being in government promote or impede change? Indeed, are any cross-national patterns visible at all?
