Party Networks at the EU Level and the Emerging Added Value for ‘members’

 [1] Although often dismissed as an impotent party system (Mair, 1999; Hix, 2000; Ladrech, 1999) the emerging networks at EU level demonstrate an incremental interdependence and growing policy convergence between national parties of the same ideological familles spirituelles. However the persistent democratic deficit and declining voter turnout in EP elections undermines their efficient policy performance. The under-researched behaviour of party networks’ representation is examined with data for mid-level elites and rank and file members of the PES network from the new Membership Survey (2001). The profile, attitudes and behaviour of these ‘members’ are examined in comparison to non-members from Eurobarometer, to explore the ‘added value’ of involvement in a transnational party network. This complex relationship with the voter – through Multi Level Governance structures and indirect membership – plays a central role in defining these voters’ relationship with the EU. Hence, the evidence from this membership survey implies that co-operation and convergence within party systems across Europe is not restricted to the party elites. If this assertion is acknowledged, then a reassessment is called for on the significance of EU trans-national party development.