If things evolve well the next few months, by the summer, there should be, finally, a European constitution. Now, I know there are many EU-critics out here, but a constitution could satisfy them as well. Some issues which are now being decided in Brussels could turn back to the national capitals (like agriculture, social affairs). Far from being a ‘federal state’, this new constitution could give the EU a more democratic impact. And, it will leave an option open for memberstates who want to leave the Union. Most important of all, the constitution will give the EU a legal supremacy, which means that from then on, the EU will be considered to be able to vote in lets say, the WTO, NATO or even more important, the UN. Eventually it should lead, I hope, to a reform in the security council where France and the UK would lose their permanent seat and be replaced by the EU (together with other nations like India, Iran, South Africa, Brazil). France and Britain individually represent little, but a vote for Europe would be a lot more democratic.
Before you all start yelling first read this brochure from the BBC. It explains what will be in the final constitution. I hope this will be arranged as soon as possible.
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March 27, 2004 at 5:38 pm