The third sector and the European Union policy process: an initial evaluation

The third, voluntary or non-profit sector has recently emerged as a recogni zed actor in the EU policy process. Yet, at the same time, most of the init iatives associated with it have been characterized by inertia, delays and p erceived low salience from the perspective of many of the leading actors in volved. This article represents a first attempt to explore and explain this situation, drawing upon Kingdon's 'independent streams' approach. Five int errelated third sector policy initiatives are discussed: the European Assoc iation Statute; Declaration 23 attached to the Maastricht Treaty; a 1997 Co mmunication dealing with the role of associations and foundations in Europe ; the third sector's involvement in the Structural Funds; and the third sec tor's role in overseas development.