Flip Floppers: Position Changes During.x000d.Bargaining.

I explore the dynamics of bargaining in the EU.x000d.through examining the factors that lead member states to shift away from their initial policy positions during the course of negotiations. I examine the extent to which the member states move away from their initial policy positions, and the reasons as to why they do so. . One of the main findings of my analysis is that the member states with more coalition potential tend to hold on to their initial positions and compromise to a lesser extent during the negotiations. Moreover, the type of voting rule used has a great influence on member states’ decision to change their bargaining positions or not. The type of voting rule also influences the extent to which they will benefit from doing so. I find that under unanimity member states switch positions considerably less often but are able to use their increased negotiation power to extract better outcomes as a result of switching. On the other hand, position-switching decreases member states' success under qualified majority voting. These arguments and findings provide a fascinating exploration into previously unexamined dynamics in legislative bargaining in general, and EU negotiations in particular. ..PAT.-Unpublished Manuscript [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]