The Legitimacy of Democratic Systems: The Role of Social Rights

Contemporary democratic systems are experiencing a period of severe delegitimation, alongside strong signs of weakness in constitutional frameworks and the principles of the rule of law. Within this context of legal uncertainty, a major divisive factor is represented by citizens' dissatisfaction with institutions, particularly regarding the need for equality of treatment and the guarantee of social rights. Based on these elements, the research must therefore direct its investigation towards the remaining leeway for public and budgetary policies within the EMU framework, also aiming to identify legal competences and functions related to the balanced financial coverage of the essential services underpinning civil and social rights.