jef - Ratification of the Lisbon Treaty

Ratification of the Lisbon Treaty

Ratification of the Lisbon Treaty represents

a new beginning rather than a dead end

The Young European Federalists (JEF-Europe) applaud Czech President Klaus's ratification of the Lisbon Treaty shortly after their EU-wide 'Pen Action' calling for him to sign without delay. Nevertheless, JEF-Europe is persistent in stressing the need for a prompt implementation of the Treaty's provisions as well as for further widening and deepening of the current European Union.

In the words of Elisabeth Velle, Member of JEF-Europe’s Executive Bureau: "We are delighted President Klaus has finally approved what Czech citizens via their Parliament had agreed upon six long months ago. Three weeks ago we sent him 27 pens from all EU member states to urge him to sign the Treaty and I am happy he finally used one of these pens and took our advice!"

Pauline Gessant, Vice-President of JEF-Europe states: "It is vital that the provisions of the Treaty are implemented promptly, as it gives the EU more capacities in areas where there was a pressing need for more effective EU action. The Treaty paves the way for a Common European Energy Policy, an EU diplomatic service, a Common Immigration Policy and joint action in combating climate change. We should immediately embark upon these projects!" she continued.

“JEF-Europe welcomes the democratic progress brought by the Treaty, such as the expanded role accorded to the European Parliament as well as the Citizens’ Initiative. These developments provide opportunities to bridge the gap between the citizens and the European Union. We call upon political parties, civil society and all European citizens to seize these opportunities.”

JEF-Europe President Philippe Adriaenssens concludes: “The Lisbon Treaty brings significant improvement but, seen from the Moon, it only looks like a small step in European integration and will never be considered a big step for humankind unless it can be used as a cornerstone to build a democratic European Federation.” [ENDS]

PRESS CONTACTS:

Philippe Adriaenssens, President of JEF-Europe; president(at)jef.eu | +32(0)472334127

Pauline Gessant, Vice-President of JEF-Europe; pauline.gessant(at)jef.eu | +33(0)683226009

NOTES:

'Pen Action' - click here.

JEF international seminar in Tarxien, Malta | 17-23 October 2010

“The ultimate solution for a better life: (im)migration?” is an international seminar organised by JEF-Europe and JEF-Malta in Tarxien, a small village in the south east of Malta from 17 until 23 October 2010.

When speaking about immigration it is important to make the distinction between legal and illegal immigrants. Despite the obvious difference in their legal status, immigrants in both categories often feel unwelcome and excluded from their host societies, which is closely linked to xenophobic attitudes widespread across Europe and openly manifested especially in recent years, but also the lack of adequate policies and assistance of governmental institutions in host countries.