EU25 - the final countdown!

The Young European Federalists (JEF-Europe) welcome the enlargement of the European Union to include ten new member states. From the 1st of May the European family will include 25 countries, a crucial step towards unifying Europe.

"Finally the day has come when the family gets together again!" stated Marko Bucik, a member of the JEF Executive Bureau from Slovenia.

"Millions of us across the continent will be celebrating tonight!"

Beyond the official celebrations there will be many "Europarties" and gatherings organised by JEF members, stretching from Norway to Malta. This is a sign that young people are conscious about the importance of the moment and ready to seize the challenge of working together.

"Young people will really be the ones to benefit from enlargement. We, above all, see the opportunities of enlargement," continued Marko Bucik.

JEF has long been calling for the whole of Europe to be united in a European federation. With tomorrow's enlargement, a large part of JEF's vision falls into place. JEF-Europe however strikes a note of caution when it comes to making an EU of 25 member states workable.

"The Union of 25 will be different, but should not be more difficult. A larger EU requires a more effective and democratic system of governance.

Without the adoption of the EU Constitution, decision making in Brussels will be a real headache."

"The real work to make enlargement a success starts when everyone gets to work on Monday."

Note to the editors:

Find out about JEF activities on E day at www.giveeuropeaface.net