Debating the Constitution

The current revival … is based on realism rather than idealism. Still, it does at least provide an opportunity to address the shortcomings of the current arrangements and to equip the EU for the expected (and unexpected) challenges that lie ahead, say Sara Hagemann and Antonio Missiroli of the European Policy Centre.

Their policy brief “Debating the Constitution: between realism and revival” examines the background, the state of play and the prospects for treaty reform for the European Union.

In their view, the main challenge still lies in rapidly forging a deal that is sufficiently incisive to ensure that the enlarged EU functions efficiently, but is also capable of being accepted and ratified by all 27 Member States. EU governments must not forget to canvass public opinion and build support for the emerging deal during the negotiations.

Ralf Grahn