Globalisation, Europe and Multilateralism : Democratic Institutions, the rise of Alternative MOdels and mounting Normative Dissensus

ongoing

GEM-DIAMOND's agenda speaks to a cross-section of the Commission's political priorities for 2019-2024, most notably its push for renewed European democratic practices. As part of a wider ongoing research programme on Globalisation, Europe & Multilateralism, the project will delve into the impact of EU instruments on Democratic Institutions, the rise of Alternative MOdels, and present-day mounting Dissensus driven by internal contestation and external competition. Scientifically, the project will result in research and training outputs that will be of direct benefit in terms of improved citizens’ knowledge and democratic practices. Expected innovations produced by the 15 early career Researchers are anchored in: (1) an original conceptual understanding of 'dissensus'; (2) a unique form of interdisciplinary and methodological coherence; and (3) new empirical findings assessing the shifting efficiency and legitimacy of EU instruments. Educationally, the project offers an integrated training curriculum that will foster excellent research, further structure Ph.D. training at the European level, and help set new global standards in the field. The proposed Consortium is uniquely positioned to provide high-quality accredited degrees given that its members have decades of experience in the field and together have awarded over 50 double doctoral degrees. Societally, its Dissemination, Exploitation & Communication efforts will have a sustainable impact on the European Research (ERA) and Higher Education (EHEA) Areas rooted in its innovative practices and original research. The project will boost the career prospects of 15 researchers, promote innovative research practices standards with Open Science, and encourage innovative democratic practices through citizen science platforms hosted across Europe with an eye on ensuring all findings are readily available and directly exploitable. This will strengthen the prospects of civic participation and liberal democracy in the EU.