France and the Netherlands have said no to the European Constitutional Treaty. The reasons for this no were varied. In addition to domestic political motives, contradictory fears were in play. Some thought the Treaty brought with it 'too much Europe'. Some thought it did not bring enough Europe. Others, particularly in the Netherlands, were protesting against the supposed cost of Europe. Yet others thought that the European Union's enlargement has gone ahead much too quickly. What is the next step? Europe is at a crossroads. But the choice is simple. Should we let Europe shrivel to a simple free trade zone, as some wish? Or do we take up again the European challenge and create a genuinely political Europe, a Europe that can play a role in the world; a Europe with the capacity to modernise its own economy and respond to the economic developments coming from China, India and Japan. The Belgian Prime Minister, Guy Verhofstadt does not mince his words. He wishes to create a 'United States of Europe,' with all member states of the European Union participating if possible, with a group of 'pioneers' if necessary. His book is required reading for anyone who cares about Europe.
Europe in crisis.
Conflicting signals.
Why did so many citizens vote 'no'?.
From The Hague to Brussels.
Europe : unknown and unloved.
A free trade area or a political Europe?.
The experience of the United States of America.
A new Europe.
Five tasks for the new Europe.
New financing for a new Europe.
New institutions for a new Europe.
A 'United States of Europe' in an 'Organisation of European States'.
A European referendum.