It was an honour to represent the European Parliament at the intergovernmental conference on the Treaty of Lisbon which came into force exactly 10 years ago. Brussels bigwigs will eulogise the Treaty at a ceremony at the House of History on Sunday. 1/ google.com/url?sa=i&sourc…
The Treaty improved the way the EU is governed, especially by boosting the powers of the Parliament and, quid pro quo, of the European Council. It entrenched the rule of law and democratic practices. It clarified the competences of the Union and streamlined law making. 2/
Lisbon enhanced EU fundamental rights, and helped EU citizens. It was ambitious in foreign and security policy. It provided for more flexible integration by a core group of states, and installed the now famous secession clause of Article 50. 3/
But don't go gooey-eyed. Lisbon failed in important respects. Internal workings of institutions were hardly touched. The budget was unreformed and inadequate. Economic policy was kept national, despite the euro. It was functionalist progress, but it was not the constitution. 4/
Many of its most ambitious provisions are not exploited in practice. The Commission remains too large. None of the passerelles to more efficient and democratic decision-making have been crossed. Certain Lisbon arrangements, such as @eu_eeas and the Spitz, need review. 5/
So the new Conference on the Future of Europe has much work to do. The central task today, if you forgive me, is to build a proper EU government up above the level of the member states. Once again, Europe is facing a federal moment. Will it or won’t it? 6/
Joyeux anniversaire, cher Lisbon !
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