Exploring the European UnionOs Odemocratic deficit,O this book traces the halting development of parliamentary democracy at the European level. Arguing that the key actor in this crucial process is the European Parliament, the contributors concentrate on two of the classic functions of a parliament: the legislative and the representative. ParliamentOs current role as co-legislator is the result of a continuous and bitter battle with the Council and the member states for more law-making power. This has led to an increase of Parliament's authority, especially under the co-decision procedure embedded in the Treaty of Amsterdam. Essential for its representative function is the development of a Europe-wide party system. The contributors analyze the ongoing tensions between party orientations and national loyalties, between national parties and European party groups, and between representatives at the national and regional level. Representing the cutting edge of analysis and empirical research on the European Parliament, this work will be essential reading for all students of the EU.