“Now It’s The Time To Turn Despair Into Opportunity”

The peoples of France and The Netherlands already demonstrated, and the European politicians should think about it. There were several reasons for a “No”, but the corroboration is clear: there is disappointment regarding the European Union. Europe is too much exposed to criticism. This has created a vicious circle where politicians who, despite their calling themselves pro-Europeans, launch populist attacks against Brussels. Jacques Chirac also made the mistake of putting the blame of his political problems on Europe without highlighting the advantages as well.
Nevertheless, quite a few electors voted against the European integration. The text was not rejected for its institutional proposals. The European Union, and the peace and liberties that it offers are considered as achievements, and that was also taken into account. Today, however, the treaty is going through a difficult situation and it needs pondering about in the next European summit. The institutional reforms foreseen in the text could increase the effectiveness of the European Union. The necessary conditions must be prepared for the peoples to be ready to accept them.
The British presidency should work in order that the French and Dutch “no” turns into a “yes” to a new Europe. The challenge is not an easy one regarding the populist reforms. Europeans will have to understand that the reforms to be made do not aim to flood Europe with the American influence. This is the clarification work Tony Blair must do upon taking on the presidency of the European Union.