Networking Europe

Abstract

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Interpreting transnational infrastructure vulnerability: European blackout and the historical dynamics of transnational electricity governance

“…Finally, this paper speaks to an emerging literature on the role of technology and infrastructure in European integration (for a research agenda and recent overview see Misa and Schot, 2005;Van der Vleuten, 2008). Transnational infrastructure has been an important arena for the interpretation and negotiation of European integration and fragmentation (Van der Vleuten and Kaijser, 2005Kaijser, , 2006Van der Vleuten et al, 2006;Lagendijk, 2008;Schot and Lagendijk, 2008;Schipper, 2008;Schot and Schipper, 2009;Badenoch and Fickers, forthcoming). In line with ongoing historical research on critical European infrastructure (Kaijser et al, 2008), our case brings into view the potency of vulnerability perceptions-fear and threat-in such processes.…”

“…We start by noting that by the time the Brussels organizations became important players in this game, European transnational infrastructure development and governance were already well established (Van der Vleuten and Kaijser, 2005Kaijser, , 2006; Van der Vleuten et al, 2007;Schipper and Van der Vleuten, 2008;Schot and Lagendijk, 2008). For the case of electricity, we already encountered the UC(P)TE as a major player in transnational electricity infrastructure governance.…”

Myths of the European Network: Constructions of Cohesion in Infrastructure Maps

“…47 Transnational system-builders, by contrast, have often been at pains to portray their networks as existing without any interest inor effect onnational territories whatsoever, as part of an agenda of 'hiding' their integration work. 48 Maps drawn up by international bodies such as the UNECE contain disclaimers, stating that they make no statement 'concerning the legal status of any country or territory or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of the frontiers of any country or territory.' By freeing map-makers of involvement in international tensions, such statements further suggest that the networks on the map are somehow disinterested, serving their own harmless or benevolent purpose.…”

“…At the same time, there were also efforts at bridging the divide through networks. 72 The most notable of these was the UNECE, mentioned at the start of this paper. Established in 1947, the UNECE set out explicitly to link all of Europe through the building of material systems.…”

Mobility and European Integration

“…on the material linking-the networking-of Europe or on intermodal mobility networks. 15 In that context special reference is often made to transport professionals. 16 By exploring the 'processes of transnational system building and their entanglement with the shaping of Europe' 17 they are trying to bridge the gap between both disciplines.…”