The implications of the better regulation agenda for the European Parliament's inter- and intra-institutional power relations

Abstract

How do the European Commission's and the European Parliament (EP) Secretariat's better regulation agendas affect the EP's intra- and inter-institutional relations? Based on document analysis and interviews with members of the EP and EU officials, this article presents four key findings. First, the increase in inter-institutional coordination has strengthened the EP president's and the chairs' influence in their respective party groups but contributed to the breakup of the informal grand coalition between the European People's Party and the Socialists and Democrats. Second, the frequent interaction among these actors has contributed to a teamwork-oriented spirit towards common commitments and their delivery. Third, the enhanced role of the EP Secretariat has contributed to greater competition with the party groups, with both sides vying to influence the discourses in the EP committees. Finally, the increased level of expertise provided by the EP Secretariat has strengthened the EP's negotiation team in the trilogue negotiations.