Reconceptualising the Brussels Effect

Matti Ylönen

Journal of Common Market Studies, 2026, vol. 64, issue 1, 100-124

Abstract: The Brussels effect has become a major tool for analysing the global exemplary impact of the European Union (EU) rules in academia and policy‐making. It is entering uncharted territory. Heightened corporate lobbying and third‐country influence test the EU's regulatory capacity and the stringency of its standards while shifting political tides challenge the EU's aspirations as a global rule‐maker. Threats from Donald Trump and tech firm executives abound. To capture such dynamics, the article outlays a pioneering reconceptualisation of this effect, drawing from the political economy concepts of instrumental and structural/hybrid power. This reconceptualisation equips the Brussels effect framework with analytical tools needed to tackle contemporary governance challenges while encompassing advocacy efforts that undermine the background conditions of this effect. Reconceptualising the Brussels effect also helps us to address the shifting world political dynamics while adjoining it with broader debates on power and polycentric governance.

Date: 2026
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