The Role of Agenda Setting in Pension Market Integration

Abstract

Through a study of pension market integration, this article analyzes variation in the European Commission’s ability to use its agenda setting tools effectively. Contrasting failed and successful negotiations over European pension directives, the main argument is that efficient agenda setting in this policy area requires the Commission to build strategic coalitions, frame issues in a way that resonates with key actors, set aside internal rivalries, trim a crowded agenda, and enhance the quality of information flows regarding workplace pension reform options and limits in other countries.

Key Words:

• Agenda control
• agenda setting
• European Commission
• pension directive
• occupational pensions
• Single Pension Market

Acknowledgements

For helpful comments on previous versions, I am grateful to Sebastiaan Princen, Markus Haverland, Martin Steinwand, and two anonymous reviewers.