A constitution is a text which contains the fundamental rules of the group of states.
In actual fact, the European Constitution replaces the main treaties with a single text.
But why?
It is designed to meet the challenges of an enlarged Europe, 25 member states and around 450,000,000 inhabitants.
It must be a democratic, transparent, efficient Europe working to serve all Europeans.
But my country already has a constitution?
The European constitution does not replace the national constitutions of the countries of Europe. It will co-exist
with these constitutions and will have its own justification and its own autonomy.
The European Constitution defines the contexts within which the European Union is able to act.
What is in the constitution
The European Constitution is divided into four parts:
Part 1; Defines values, objectives, powers, decision making procedures and institutions of the European Parliament.
Part 2; Contains of the charter of the fundamental rights.
Part 3; Describes the policies, internal and external action and functioning of the European Union.
Part 4; includes the procedures for adopting and revising the constitution.
What can the consitution do for me?
The guarantee of respect for a certain common values and a European model of society.
Respect for human dignity, liberty, democracy, equality, the rule of law and human rights.
Equal rights for man and woman.
Free movement of persons, goods, services and capital, freedom of establishment, no discrimination for nationality.
Every national member of state shall be a citizen of the union.
If a member state is a victim of a natural and manmade disaster, the EU and member states shall act jointly to assist that state.
