No society is free from corruption. According to a new study, weak governance structures are also closely related to the considerable socio-economic differences across EU regions.

Italy was selected to join the euro among the first group of EU member states. The country’s experience of the single currency is however mixed, which has led to a sceptical attitude towards the euro reforms proposed.

Since the 1990’s, the number of EU agencies has increased steadily and rapidly. While they have been given more discretionary powers, the mechanisms of control and accountability have not kept up with this development.

Sweden currently benefits from being a euro outsider. This conclusion is drawn by Martin Höpner, a political scientist at the Max Planck Institute in Germany. At the same time, Höpner explains, Sweden should be prepared to explain and defend its choice to keep the krona.