Beyond the Myth of Nationality

Working and communicating with and across nations and nationalities makes cultural differences a permanent part of everyday reality in multinational organisations like the European Commission. It has been frequently argued that nationality forms an important basis for forming networks in and around the European Union (EU) institutions. This has been linked to the ease of establishing communication and connection resulting from sharing a culture. Do cultural preferences shape the choices of Commission officials when composing their networks for obtaining task-related information or advice? Are national networks a myth or everyday reality in the European Commission? Why or why not?

Beyond the Myth of Nationality moves beyond and challenges the current EU literature and explores the role of nationality and networks in the Commission systematically. It uses a multi-disciplinary approach and borrows concepts from the relevant literature on networks, organisations and culture. It also employs a multi-methods research design combining quantitative and qualitative empirical evidence consisting of interviews and participant observation in the Commission.

Written in an accessible manner, this book is aimed at readers who want to obtain a deeper knowledge of the institutions of and policy-making in the European Union. It targets scholars and practitioners with an interest in international organisations, as well as a wider public with a curiosity in how individuals behave in multinational contexts.

Semin Suvarierol currently works at the Erasmus University Rotterdam.