In search of a second wind for the Constitution in Madrid

Peter Winkler examines the strategies of the EU Constitution's proponents and opponents. While the opponents are pushing for a new draft of the Constitution, its proponents want to keep as much of the original text as possible. According to Winkler, there are certain points on which it will be difficult to reach a consensus. Nonetheless, he insists it's "too early to conclude that the attempts to revive the Constitution project are doomed. Up to now, the members of the EEC, EC and EU have always found a solution in precisely those phases when the situation seemed most hopeless. Nonetheless, it's still possible the initiative could fail. But even that wouldn't have to be a great tragedy. All too often the project of European integration has been pushed forward by elites in more or less exclusive isolation. This could now give them the shock they need to see that over the years - and in changing contexts - an idea can change and take on a different meaning."

» to the homepage (external link, Neue Zürcher Zeitung)
More from the press review on the subject » EU Constitution, » Europe
All available articles from » Peter Winkler

» To the complete press review of Friday, January 26, 2007