The roots and the tree

“Being able to count on fathers with the stature of Adenauer, Schuman and De Gasperi, Catholic politicians who believed in integration, has been an important chance for Europe”. Philippe Chenaux, Church history scholar, describes himself as a “staunch federalist and Europeanist”, although he recently voiced his concern over the future of European integration. In an interview with Gianni Borsa for SIR Europe Professor Chenaux calls upon citizens to vote in view of the upcoming EP elections next June.Professor, you have been studying the relations between the Catholic world and European integration for many years. What conclusions have you reached to this regard? “Christianity has had a crucial role in the history of Europe and in the process for the construction of the Communities. In this sense, we ought to reflect on the contribution of some of the major statesmen of the 1940s and 1950s. Social and intellectual achievements must be equally underlined. I personally believe that the action of the Church and of Catholic laity was a determining factor that promoted, supported and manifested brotherhood among European peoples. This is the basis on which the Community edifice reposes”.Today the European Union would appear to have reached a crossroads. Its past is marked by successful accomplishments (peace, democracy, development), but it seems incapable of proceeding along its path… “At this stage of globalization more Europe and a greater deal of cooperation is needed to address contemporary challenges. I am more concerned about some of the issues pertaining to European unity. Consider enlargement: it risks watering down the integration process. Some claim that the EU risks being limited to an enormous market, marked by the lack of values cornerstones and the overshadowing of the common roots, that include Christianity”. Are you referring to Turkey, that received candidate status for EU membership? “Not only, although Turkey does represent a new and more complex frontier. The fact remains that before accepting new members the EU should strengthen its institutions, adopt a fundamental Treaty and step up cooperation among Member States. It’s pointless denying how difficult it is for 27 States to take decisions. In fact, it might become impossible in a larger EU, with insufficiently democratic and inefficient institutions and with weaker bonds among States”.A number of observers noted a higher degree of scepticism in the European Union and envisaged high abstention rates in June. What’s your opinion?“The triumph of Euro-scepticism is precisely the opposite of the great design of the founding fathers. Such drift ought to be countered. The EU must be capable of taking outstanding decisions and show citizens its crucial contribution to their lives. This is why I am in favour of multi-speed Europe. In other words, those States that wish to increase their cooperation must be given the possibility of doing so”. Has Europe lost its original vocation? “I would rather say that the EU ought to rediscover its roots, that includes Christianity. This must not be an exclusivist attitude. But it’s important to acknowledge our common roots and objectives that enable us to proceed on the road leading to integration”.What can believers do to consolidate the “common home”?“The Church ought to do what it has always done: to form Catholic conscience. It is necessary to operate at the level of reconciliation, reception and solidarity. As was done in the post-war period for France and Germany. A lot still needs to be done, and a European spirit ought to be erected. I wish to point out to the initiative carried out at the end of each year by the Taizé Community across European cities, which brings together thousands of youth to pray and reflect. It is an extremely positive example”.The origins of the European Economic Community were debated in the past. The situation today is radically different. … And there are those who don’t speak of one, but of many “Europes”.“Historical events have transformed our Continent, that is no longer the same it was in the post-war period. It is marked by the coexistence of different social and economic structures, and by multiple cultures and religions. But I believe that it is possible to identify the sense of a common destiny. Thus the contribution of Christianity could be crucial”.While European Parliament elections are around the corner… “The EU is a major political adventure, perhaps the greatest achievement of the past 50 years. The Community brought peace and stability: I believe that this is the road to be followed, reinforcing EU institutions. This requires the commitment of Catholics and of all citizens”. What would you say to a young European as relates to EU Assembly’s elections? “I would encourage him to vote for the future definition of the Parliament in Strasbourg”.