Within the framework of the Conference, citizens as well as national and European political representatives engaged in discussions about the future of the EU. Deliberation in the conference's thematic working groups proved to be particularly fruitful, culminating in a report centred around 49 reform proposals. These are characterized by pro-European, integrative and hopeful ideas. In view of the climate and COVID-19 crises as well as the war in Ukraine, the desire for a more capable and autonomous EU is reflected in many demands.
While the implementation of some measures is possible within the framework of the existing EU treaties, other central reforms, such as the abolition of unanimity voting in the European Council, require a treaty change. This can only be brought about by a convention.
It is now the politicians’ task to advocate these reforms, both in national parliaments and their own European party families, and to actively reach out to sceptics. Furthermore, the European public and members of the European Citizens’ Panels need to be informed about the progress of the implementation process.
Speakers:
- Dr Mark Speich, State Secretary for Federal and European Affairs and International Affairs of North Rhine-Westphalia
- Axel Schäfer, Member of the German Bundestag and Member of the Conference Plenary
- Joy Clara Schäflein, Member of the Conference Plenary as ambassador of European Citizens’ Panel on the Rule of Law
- Dr Funda Tekin, Director of the Institut für Europäische Politik (IEP)
The online event was organized by the Representation of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia to the Federal Government in cooperation with the IEP. The IEP is supported for ist activities by the Federal Foreign Office and receives funding from the „Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values" (CERV) programme of the European Union.
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