The Treaty of Lisbon Comes into Effect

Overview

On December 1, 2009, the Treaty of Lisbon came into effect, marking a significant milestone in the European Union’s history. This treaty amended the Maastricht Treaty (1993) and the Treaty of Rome (1958), which are the fundamental constitutional treaties of the European Union (EU). The Lisbon Treaty was designed to streamline the EU’s operations and enhance its efficiency and democratic legitimacy, while also increasing coherence in its external actions.

Background

The Treaty of Lisbon was signed by EU member states on December 13, 2007, in Lisbon, Portugal, as a response to the challenges posed by the enlargement of the EU and the need for institutional reform following the rejection of the European Constitution by French and Dutch referenda in 2005. The ratification process took nearly two years and was completed after overcoming several hurdles, including a failed referendum in Ireland in 2008, which was resolved with a second, successful referendum in 2009.

Key Changes Introduced

1. Institutional Reforms:

   • European Council: Became a formal institution of the EU with the creation of a permanent President, elected for a term of two and a half years, renewable once. This role was distinct from the rotating presidency of the Council of the EU.
   • High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy: This new position aimed to offer a stronger voice in global affairs by merging duties of the EU’s foreign policy chief and the European Commissioner for External Relations.

2. Decision-Making and Voting:

   • The treaty introduced a double majority voting system in the Council of the EU to enhance decision-making efficiency. This system required 55% of member states, representing at least 65% of the EU population, for most decisions.

3. Expansion of Powers:

   • The European Parliament’s powers were expanded, notably by increasing its legislative function and giving it equal decision-making power with the Council in many policy areas.
   • National parliaments received more influence in the EU’s legislative process, allowing them to challenge EU legislation if it violated the principle of subsidiarity.

4. Legal Personality:

   • The EU acquired a single legal personality, enabling it to sign international treaties and join international organizations independently.

5. Charter of Fundamental Rights:

   • The treaty recognized the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union as legally binding, consolidating the rights of EU citizens.

Significance

The Lisbon Treaty was pivotal in enhancing the EU’s operational capacity and coherence. It addressed the institutional challenges posed by previous enlargements, making the EU more adaptable and capable of acting decisively on the global stage. By strengthening democratic processes within the EU, the treaty aimed to bring European institutions closer to the citizens they serve, fostering a more unified, efficient, and transparent Union.

Aftermath

In the years following its implementation, the Treaty of Lisbon enabled the EU to better manage various challenges, including economic crises and foreign policy conflicts. It laid the groundwork for a more integrated Europe with a strengthened role in global affairs, while also becoming a basis for further discussions on EU reform and integration.