Lessons learned from poor governance: A comparison of the EU strategies for exiting the crises of 2008 and 2020

This paper analyses the EU's strategy for recovering from the economic and social consequences of the pandemic, of which the NextGenerationEU temporary stimulus package forms part. That strategy is compared to the diametrically opposite approach taken by EU institutions in the crisis of 2008. The most significant elements and economic policy references adopted in the two cases are identified. The paradigm shift in economic policy is evident, and the errors that led to a double dip in European economies in the handling of the earlier crisis have been avoided. In spite of the better discretionary response, it is argued that there is a need for a permanent, amply endowed, well-designed European stabilisation mechanism free from complexes in regard to the mutualisation of debt, so as to simplify procedures and reduce reaction times in the face of further crises.

Automated summary

This paper analyzes the EU's strategy for recovery from the pandemic, comparing it to the approach taken during the 2008 crisis. It identifies the key elements and economic policy references adopted in both cases. The paradigm shift in economic policy is evident, and the mistakes from the earlier crisis have been avoided. The paper argues for the need of a permanent, well-funded, and well-designed European stabilization mechanism to simplify procedures and reduce reaction times in the face of future crises.