The aim of this paper is to explore the extent to which the notable increase in public opinion expressing reservation about the EU and the governing of the crisis has begun to find a way into EU institutions. It argues that the ambivalent role of the Presidency - as both agenda setter for national interests and broker of European interests - is under pressure as member states in the chair need to respond to domestic concerns. It explores whether the demands for a "successful" presidency at the domestic and European levels may be going in different directions.
