“Quo vadis Europe?”

Certainly, the French vote on May 29 represents a serious obstacle for the process of European integration. Its repercussion should not be minimized but it is not convenient either to exaggerate it. Instead, it is essential that we understand the reasons for that vote. National factors had an influence but the decisive element was the lack of understanding of the proposed model.
The acceleration of the expansion process, the sense of unease among certain economic sectors, the distrust for liberal reforms and the increasing fear caused by the migratory pressure are some of the reasons that led a founding member state to say “No”. These fears have been increased by the tendency of accusing Brussels always that a difficult decision has to be made. Today, we have to face a delicate situation that may turn even worse in the event that the Dutch also say “No”.
Italy has chosen the parliamentary option to ratify the text, which is completely democratic. There is no sense in organizing a referendum about the text. The ratification process should continue and the French vote should not represent a veto. During the holding of the European Council on June 16, the situation has to be evaluated but only at the end of the ratification process will we be able to get any conclusions. The French “No’ does not mean the death of the second Treaty of Rome. Our voters demand more from Europe to face the new emerging challenges. This is also what our American allies and our neighbors want. The European Union has to have a strong legal structure but also values. The French “No” may have public opinion rethink about this aspect.