Italy and the strategy of political appointment

The dominant profile of the Italian strategy of appointment to the institutions of the European Union is investigated both in a historical perspective (since the foundation of the EEC to the end of the 80’s) and from an empirical point of view (from the 90’s onwards). In this second case, the appointment of the Italian commissioners in 1994 and 2004 is analysed. The research demonstrates that some relevant factors influence the capability of negotiations of the domestic actors as nominators. At the same time, as for what concerns the capability of the nominees to show their expertise in Brussels, a good combination of competence and “good relationship” with the EU environment is also crucial.