The European Union (EU) Constitution was one of the most important developments in the history of the EU, aiming to make the EU more transparent, relevant and accountable to the citizens of its member states. Current anxieties over the pace and direction of EU integration place this comprehensive study at the forefront of the EU governance debate.

O'Neill goes far beyond a simple account of the EU Constitution, focussing also on the response to the current crisis of confidence between the Union and its citizens and how those in power have responded to the challenge.

Making a substantial contribution to literature on the EU, key discussion points include:

• The political crisis behind the Constitution
• The power politics at work in the negotiations
• How the Constitution affects EU policymaking
• The impact on the citizens of the EU

This is essential reading for all those wishing to understand the background to one of the key areas within European Politics.

Michael O'Neill is Jean Monnet Professor in EU Politics at Nottingham Trent University.