Developing Polyarchy? The European Union and its structural policies for Middle Eastern neighbours

European Union (EU) pursues a long-term structural approach to political development and modernization, in which ethical considerations blend with security and economic objectives. The concept of polyarchy offers a plausible model of the EU's vision. It is used by liberal political scientists to denote an open, pluralist political, and socio-economic system. More critical political economy theorists emphasize the constraining and insulated features of capitalist polyarchy (which is understood as a sophisticated but anti-democratic system). The EU's strategy and impact can be critiqued in regard to both concepts: the liberal vision of polyarchy and the radical interpretation of this as a relatively diffuse but hegemonic system. In regard to its policies for Egypt, one notes an effort to develop social democracy, participatory development, small businesses, and general pluralism.