Benchmarking Integration in the EU

Integration policies regarding third-country nationals (TCNs) in the European Union (EU) have been subject to multifaceted normative developments and policy processes since 1999. At that time, member states began transferring certain responsibilities for immigration policies to EU institutions. The member states have often considered integration policy a strategic priority for the area of freedom, security and justice (AFSJ) and for the establishment of a common immigration policy in the EU. Yet, the principle of subsidiarity has prevailed in this policy area. The member states perceive immigration policies to be at the heart of national sovereignty and their exclusive authority. This intergovernmental logic has led to the emergence of an alternative policy framework. The alternative framework fosters the Europeanization and convergence of policy through means different from those already provided by the traditional Community method of cooperation.