euro|topics - The end of the EU constitution

Main focus of Wednesday, June 20, 2007

The end of the EU constitution

If the EU's leading politicians do agree on a new mini treaty, it won't have much in common with the original constitution. Is this the right approach? Shortly before the EU summit is due to begin there is still no consensus on which direction Europe should take.

La Voix du Luxembourg - Luxembourg

Laurent Moyse reveals that "the points that are preventing a new, albeit very watered-down compromise, from being accepted, have little to do with the reasons for refusal given by those who said 'no' [to the Constitution]. ... We are on the verge of seeing a complete dilution of the European Community. Jettisoning principles and values that were hard-fought for over months, those opposed to a treaty have managed to torpedo a project that was far from a cure-all, but had the merit of laying the foundations for improved functioning. They have found unexpected allies whose interests are at times opposed to unity and solidarity in Europe. As for the argument that could be heard two years ago according to which a crisis in Europe would be for its own good, today's reality has proved it wrong. A destructive spirit has never been a good idea." (20/06/2007)

De Standaard - Belgium

The Flemish daily argues that the EU cannot be turned into a "United States of Europe. Old nations such as France or Poland cannot be compared to states like Kansas or Ohio. To say this isn't Euroscepticism. Former French minister Elisabeth Guigou, an advocate of European integration, pointed this out at a conference organized by the Friends of Europe in Brussels. ... The heated debates on the European Constitution demonstrate once and for all how it is an illusion to speak of the United States of Europe. ... To act like the Union will grow to become a super-state, like the United States, with a president, a government, a Congress, an army, a foreign policy, not to mention a single language ... demonstrates blindness, not the will to get things done." (20/06/2007)

Aftonbladet - Sweden

The newspaper calls on Swedish Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt to bear in mind when he attends the EU summit that for the Swedish nation adding a social component to the EU constitution is of utmost importance: "The charter of fundamental rights is under threat. Among other things it enshrines the fundamental rights of trade unions, such as the right to strike and make wage agreements. The goal is to make this charter legally binding and thus create a counterweight to the forces of the free market. ... As far as social issues and the charter of fundamental rights are concerned, the bulk of the resistance is coming from Great Britain. The Swedish government is playing its cards close and generally going along with Germany's line. However, if Reinfeldt gives in on issues that are important to workers and for a social Europe, he must be aware that he will face war on his return." (20/06/2007)

Népszabadság - Hungary

László Szöcs considers the consequences should the EU summit fail: "If the summit fails EU institutions will have to continue working according to existing regulations, which would be tantamount to a political slap in the face for the 27 member states, because it would mean the further postponement of institutional reform. Common foreign policy would remain at a rudimentary stage, decisions on domestic and security policy would continue to be hindered by the right of veto and the entire purpose of EU expansion could be called into question. According to the Treaty of Nice no new countries would be able to join. This would block the EU integration of the West Balkans." (20/06/2007)

Hospodářské noviny - Czech Republic

David Klimeš analyses the positions of the EU's most vocal critics: "In this imaginary hit parade of Eurosceptics the Dutch win hands down. The political elite that once supported the original constitution has meekly adopted the views expressed by the nation's citizens in the referendum." On Poland's call for the EU's voting system to be changed he writes: "This is a matter for the larger states, principally for Germany. The populist Kaczynskis want more influence - and are trying to sell this strategy as strengthening democracy within the Union. But the most tragic stance is that of the Czechs. Things that are of secondary importance for other states, such as whether the EU flag or Beethoven's melody are conferred constitutional status, are vitally important political issues for the Czechs." (20/06/2007)

Cotidianul - Romania

Romania is not participating in the current debate about an EU treaty, Sever Voinescu complains. "Romania is represented on committees in Brussels and is entitled to voice its opinion and vote. But we're provincial islanders living in the furthermost corner of Europe. We are not competent to be an EU member state - the main issues on Europe's agenda are light years beyond us. Romania is completely absent from the discussion about a new draft of the European constitution. ... When Romania's politicians think of the EU, they think of one thing only: funding. We're not interested in assuming responsibility." (19/06/2007)

» To the complete press review of Wednesday, June 20, 2007

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