ABSTRACT
In October 1993, the dismayed reaction of much of the West European media to the election of the new PASOK government revealed a widespread perception of the Greek Socialists as difficult European Union partners. This controversial reputation was largely acquired during the party’s first term in office. During the period 198185, the PASOK government had consistently refused to commit itself concerning the future of Greece’s relations with the then Community. At the same time, it had continually insisted on special treatment for Greece, while displaying a striking lack of Community consciousness. The latter was manifested not only in an apparent insensitivity to EC rules, but also in the frequent vetoes which undermined European Political Co-operation (EPC) and hindered moves towards deeper integration.
