Why does Europe need the Lisbon Treaty?
The European Union (EU) of 27 Member States has been operating with rules designed for an EU of 15 Member States. To realise its full potential, the European Union needs to modernise and reform. At the same time, there is increasing support for the EU to work together on issues that affect us all, such as climate change, energy security and international terrorism. As the EU has grown and its responsibilities have changed, it makes sense to adapt the framework it operates in so that the EU has the means to tackle today’s challenges and tomorrow’s. In particular, the Lisbon Treaty will lead to greater efficiency in the decision making process, increased democratic accountability by associating the European Parliament and national parliaments and increased coherence externally. All of these improvements will equip the EU better to defend the interests of its citizens on a day-to-day basis. 10 examples of benefits for European citizens * A right for citizens to make a request to the Commi
