Conclusion

This chapter takes stock of the empirical evidence and the lessons learned in the book. The chapter distinguishes between intended consequences of European Parliament elections that in fact materialized, those intended consequences that did not materialize, and consequences of EP elections that were unintended. The results of this volume provide a balanced picture, as some intended consequences did materialize while others did not. Also, European elections have unintended and in some respects undesirable consequences. After discussing some of the theoretical implications, the chapter focuses on the practical implications as well. It concludes by providing a look into the future of EP elections.