ABSTRACT
This contribution will concentrate first of all on the debate regarding the European democratic deficit with a focus on the legislative procedure and examining its merits. In the second part, we will analyze the ordinary legislative procedure and the manner in which it influences – and is influenced by – the so-called deficit. In addition, contemporary problems, solutions proposed in the past and their possible effects on this aspect of the deficit will be reflected upon. The final part of this contribution allows us to explore the opportunities the European Citizens’ Initiative (hereafter ECI) has to offer in improving the legislative procedure, both in theory and in practice. Taking into account the projected goals for the ECI in the Treaties and Regulation, we will thereby focus on the potential impact of ECI on the input legitimacy of the EU.
