Local developments with European dimensions

Those who believe in the idea of a united Europe, the so-called pro-Europeans, were left with mixed feelings following the results of a referendum in Italy and a repeat presidential election in Austria. While the "No" victory was expected in Italy, few could imagine such a big difference between the two camps. Meanwhile, moderate Alexander Van der Bellen's relatively comfortable win over far-right candidate Norbert Hofer in Austria was welcomed with relief. Clearly both ballots and their results are being interpreted on an international level in both pro- and anti-European terms and the same will apply in the upcoming elections in the Netherlands, France, Germany and maybe Italy, next year.

It is hard to say whether the Italian "No" vote exclusively reflects the negative attitudes of Italian voters vis-a-vis the EU. What is certain is that Italians voted against Prime...