This important new book approaches the issue of democratic deficit from the angle of accountability, today seen as an essential element of democratic government. It looks at differing understandings of the concept in the Member States and at various techniques – political, legal, and managerial – by which accountability can be assured. These include the Parliament as well as national parliaments but extend to less familiar institutions, such as the European Court of Auditors.

Introduction 1. Thinking About Accountability 2. Some Accident Blackspots 3. The Power House 4. A Plethora of Parliaments? 5. Accountability through Audit 6. Accountability through Law 7. Accountability and European Governance

Carol Harlow , Professor of Law, London School of Economics and Political Science