EU Constitution: for the states AND for the people !

The Young European Federalists (JEF-Europe) are concerned that the debate about a future Constitution for the European Union is taking an alarming course.

"All of Europe's leaders seem to have forgotten that the European Constitution is important for Europe's citizens, just as it is important for its 25 member states," explained Jon Worth, President of JEF-Europe.

"Europe's citizens need the EU Constitution as it will make their Union more effective, accountable and democratic."

"European leaders must stop arguing among themselves about states that may or may not ratify the Constitution and instead explain to citizens why the Constitution is a good idea. Why are debates like this not part of the EP election campaign?"

JEF-Europe rejects the idea that the European Union should move at the pace of its slowest member state.

"We cannot let the EU be held hostage by its reticent member states," continued Jon Worth.

"We want the EU Constitution to be ratified without exception, as that will mean that the maximum number of citizens can benefit from it."

"However, we cannot let the progress towards a European Constitution be held hostage by a small number of states. The Constitution should enter into force if ratified by a significant majority of states. Those not ratifying should be faced with the option of either ratifying the Constitution in a second phase or simply leaving the Union!"

"Whatever happens during ratification, stumbling along with the Nice Treaty is simply not an option."

Note to the editors: The policy of the Young European Federalists on this issue can be found under www.jef-europe.net/policies/archives/001816.html