<jats:p>The opening of nation states inwards and outwards has made it necessary to develop a new theory of governmental authority. Udo Di Fabio compares the traditional foundation of the modern state with the new forms of state action. He discusses the challenges of European integration, efforts to ease political problems and deregulation and considers the consequences these will have for the principle of democracy and the rule of law and for the interpretation of fundamental rights.</jats:p>