The EU in the 5th gear

Brussels — Many in Europe could finally relax after the last Friday’s referendum in Ireland and the YES-vote for the Lisbon treaty. The size of the victory came as a true surprise even for the biggest optimists. Nearly 70 % of the Irish not only said yes, but gave the entire European Union a huge boost for the future development of the alliance but at the same time for the brighter future of the whole continent.

After the first referendum, it seemed the Lisbon treaty is almost dead. Paradoxically, thanks to the global economic crisis and a very smart EU’s approach to Dublin – not too invasive, but persuasive – the EU has avoided yet another crisis in its long history.

Although there were still politicians like presidents of Czech Republic and Poland – who hoped for obstruction of Lisbon with the Irish hands, it seems very unlikely – having in mind the size of the YES victory – they would not sign the Treaty in their respective countries, subsequently finalising the ratification process in all 27 Member States.

What will then happen with the EU after the Lisbon treaty is adopted? First and foremost it will give a green light to an institutional reform, which will make the EU functioning better. Most notably, an inefficient system of 6 months presidencies, will be taken over by the full time post of the EU “president” elected for a 2,5 years term.

Another new position, which will be created under the new treaty, is de facto “EU foreign minister”, who will assist the Member States in formulating a one voice common foreign policy. Towards this end the EU external diplomatic service will also be built.

The Lisbon treaty will also gradually make a voting system in the Council much clearer and simpler, limiting veto power and increasing a number of areas, where, a so-called double majority will be used, by 50 %.

The new treaty will very substantially increase powers of the European Parliament — the most democratic institution of the EU. For the first time in history, Members of the EP will make binding decisions in areas like EU budget, agriculture policy and fisheries, transport policy, structural funds. They will also be able to influence the EU legislation regarding interior affairs and judiciary system. At the same time, the role of Member States’ parliaments in a legislation process will grow. They will be able to complain if they find the EU legislation in contrast with the subsidiarity principle. On the other hand, the European Commission will have to consult the national parliaments on its legislative proposals.

The Lisbon will give a legal power to the European Charter of Fundamental Rights, subsequently all the EU legislation, including interior affairs, will have to be in accordance with the Charter. Of course the EU citizens will be able to contest in courts any EU regulation, based on their rights stemming from the Charter.

Last but not least, the Lisbon will open a legal way, for all those wishing to leave the EU. All EU sceptics will now, apart from shouting, be able to do something concrete.

All in all, the EU is back on track, full of energy and hope. Ukraine, for its part, is getting a more reliable, better-functioning, stronger partner. Many used the lack of Lisbon as either an excuse or real argument against further enlargement of the EU. Today, such arguments, no matter if false or real, are no valid anymore. This is the best news for Ukraine. The future is wide open.