Whilst the principle of European solidarity has been promoted as one of the key parts of European identity, it remains a debated topic, due to the implications it has for Member States, for example...Show moreWhilst the principle of European solidarity has been promoted as one of the key parts of European identity, it remains a debated topic, due to the implications it has for Member States, for example in terms of giving up sovereignty. The prospect of European integration at different speeds has been seen in a negative light by the European Union, despite there being significant historical and structural differences amongst the Member States, which have not been resolved through EU membership. During the 2015 refugee crisis, solidarity became a hot topic once again, due to the overburden experienced in the arrival Member States of Greece and Italy. However, despite being a frequently evoked term, only the mandatory aspect of solidarity has been defined by the EU, who shuns the idea of a flexible solidarity. Whilst refusing the xenophobic ideals of the countries behind this new perception of solidarity, this thesis engages in a critique of the concept of mandatory solidarity, in light of different historical pasts, and experience with migration across Member States.Show less
