Protecting Democracy in Europe: Tom Theuns Presents His New Book at the European Parliament
On 10 December 2024, the European Parliament played host to an insightful presentation of ‘Protecting Democracy in Europe: Pluralism, Autocracy, and the Future of the EU’, the new book by Tom Theuns, Assistant Professor at Leiden University. Hosted by MEP Thijs Reuten (PvdA/S&D) and his team, the event brought together a distinguished panel of experts to discuss the challenges and solutions to democratic backsliding in the European Union.
The Book: Protecting Democracy in Europe
In his book, Theuns examines the responses by European Union actors to what he terms ‘the EU’s democracy crisis’. He challenges the assumption that European integration can remain purely technical, arguing that democratic legitimation must be the backdrop of European law and policy. As democratic backsliding increases in Europe, Theuns outlines the risks of the EU’s current approaches and proposes institutional reforms that would strengthen democratic integrity. He emphasizes that the survival of democracy in Europe depends on the EU’s willingness to act decisively when member states erode democratic norms. The European edition of the book is available now through Hurst Publishers and the North American version is available for pre-order with Oxford University Press.
The Panel Discussion
The book panel, moderated by Anthony Zacharzewski from the Democratic Society, brought fresh and challenging perspectives:
- Caroline De Gruyter (Europe correspondent and columnist NRC) discussed the changing role of democracy in early European integration and the media’s role in the rule-of-law crisis.
- László Andor (Secretary General of FEPS Europe and former EU Commissioner) warned against counterproductive EU sanctions, noting, "In a hostage situation, the worst tactic is to shoot the hostage."
- Samira Rafaela (D66 MEP, 2019-2024) called for greater bravery in confronting far-right threats, sharing her experience as a member of the European Parliament.
MEP Mohammed Chahim (PvdA/S&D) warmly welcomed the audience, stepping in for Thijs Reuten and speaking passionately about European democracy. Theuns expressed his deep gratitude to the speakers, organizers, and attendees for their support and contributions to the discussion.
The event, co-organized by the Democratic Society, concluded with Democracy Drinks near the Parliament, organized by Alice Stollmeyer from the organization Defend Democracy.
About Tom Theuns
Tom Theuns, based at the Institute of Political Science, Leiden University, focuses on EU legitimacy, democratic backsliding, and institutional responses to democratic crises. His work advocates for a resilient European democracy, a theme central to his new book.