The Delay Process of the European Union: Causes, Consequences, and Solutions
Authors: Saltout Alex 
Published: August 2024

The European Union (EU) is a complex and multi-faceted political and economic union that has experienced significant developments since its establishment in 1957 (European Union, 2021). A key challenge faced by the EU in its decision-making process is the issue of delay, which refers to the time lag between initiating a policy proposal and its final implementation (Börzel, 2013). This research paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the delay process within the EU, examining its causes, consequences, and potential solutions. By exploring the factors contributing to delays in EU decision-making, this study aims to illuminate the challenges the EU faces in overcoming these delays and effectively implementing policies (Hix, 2008). Through a critical examination of the impact of delay on the EU’s governance and its ability to address pressing issues, this paper contributes to the existing literature on EU governance and decision-making processes (Nugent, 2017). The EU has emerged as a significant player in global governance since its inception through the Treaty of Rome in 1957, now comprising 27 member states and numerous institutions across various policy areas (Bulmer & Paterson, 2013). Despite notable achievements, the EU faces a persistent challenge in its decision-making process: the issue of delay (Dür & Mateo, 2014). Delay, defined as the prolonged period between the initiation of a policy proposal and its final implementation, poses significant challenges to the efficiency and effectiveness of EU governance (Majone, 2009). The concept of delay within the EU’s decision-making process is multifaceted, influenced by various factors, including institutional complexities and diverging national interests (Checkel, 2014). A need for consensus among member states, often resulting in lengthy negotiations and compromises, is a primary driver of delays in EU decision-making (Kassim et al., 2015). The EU’s intricate institutional structure, featuring multiple bodies like the European Commission, the European Council, the European Parliament, and the Court of Justice of the European Union, adds layers of complexity to the decision-making process, further contributing to policy implementation delays (Sabel & Zeitlin, 2008). The consequences of delays in EU decision-making extend across numerous governance dimensions. Delays can diminish policy effectiveness, erode EU credibility, hinder timely responses to pressing issues, and result in a loss of competitive advantage (Falkner et al., 2015). Moreover, delays can exacerbate existing challenges and hinder the EU’s capacity to address complex issues, such as the Eurozone crisis, Brexit negotiations, migration policy, climate change initiatives, and digital transformation efforts (Ladi, 2012). To tackle the challenges posed by delay in EU decision-making, it is important to explore potential solutions that can enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of governance (Thatcher, 2012). Measures such as streamlining decision-making procedures, improving communication and coordination among institutions, strengthening leadership and accountability, addressing national interests, and promoting transparency and public engagement are pivotal steps toward overcoming delays and optimizing the decision-making process (Hix et al., 2007). By critically assessing the impact of delay on EU governance and its response to pressing issues, this research paper offers valuable insights into existing literature on EU governance and decision-making processes (Schimmelfennig & Sedelmeier, 2005). Through a comprehensive analysis of the causes, consequences, and potential solutions to the delay process within the EU, this study provides a nuanced understanding of the challenges the EU faces and paves the way for more efficient and effective governance in the future.