The European Union’s experience with the “Hamiltonian moment” after the COVID-19 pandemic

This study examines the European Union (EU)’s economic relief package announced for member states in the aftermath of COVID-19 and the ensuing debates over whether the EU is evolving into a federation. To establish the theoretical framework, the origins of the concept of the “Hamiltonian Moment,” as well as the arguments and discussions put forth by proponents of federalism within the EU are analyzed. Following an exploration of these two approaches, a general evaluation of the scope of the economic package is provided. This study argues that, due to the differences between the context in which the federalist structure in the United States (US) was established and the current environment within the EU, it is impossible to replicate the financial system created by A. Hamilton in the US within the EU. After elaborating on the conceptual background and related developments, the institutional and political perspectives of the EU on this matter, the steps it has taken, and the methods it has employed are presented. The post-COVID-19 global order has confronted every state with new political and economic challenges. Supranational structures have also been affected by the disruptive impact of COVID-19.