EU construction resumes

Two variables whose outcome could be worse than expected (the duration of the world financial and economic crisis and the unpredictable spread of influenza pandemics) mark the resumption of the political and institutional construction process ensuing a uniquely dormant summer. Expectations are many, but let us follow the agenda. 1 – The legislature of the incoming European Parliament opened with a significant agreement concerning EP presidency, which will be held by the European People’s Party for the first two-and-a-half years, and by a member of the Socialist group for the second half of the legislature. This arrangement is designed to promote cooperation without party – or ideological – obstacles while finally increasing MEPs’ – and subsequently the Assembly’s – powers of decision, since the past institutional three-party arrangement was far from being equally balanced.2 – It is a well-known fact that the appointment of the new European Commission is the task of the Governments. In fact, “executor” José Manuel Barroso was reconfirmed at its lead. Attention is now focused on the College of Commissioners and ministries conferral. However, in addition to their daily assignments the neo-Commissioners are called to show they will bring to fruition the mandate granted to them with the Treaties independently of national governments’ interference. If fulfilled, it will be a first positive step towards the decentralization of decision-making powers that is still a constraint to European governance. The hope is that Commissioners’ and MEPs’ commitment and dedication, along with the acknowledgement that the European dimension is different from the national one, will transform recent immobility into constructive dynamism.3 – Institutional reforms regarding EU bodies’ performance are currently curbed by the inability to reach an agreement (that would promote true pan-European interests). We confide that the standstill won’t last any longer or decisions will be frozen and Brussels seats will be turned into notaries’ offices. Sweden has the unpleasant task of bringing the Twenty-Seven to engage in dialogue whilst awaiting the recovery of institutional understanding, which Spain’s and Belgium’s upcoming presidencies are expected to ensure.4 – Where is Lisbon? A lacking social framework based on solidarity (and on appropriate financial support), which Europe fails to establish, is also the result of governments’ perfunctory economic crisis management. Social issues have disappeared from the EU’s agenda. Concrete proposals are expected of the Swedish model, symbol of integration and of a welfare state system that doesn’t abuse of welfare state concepts.5 – Before the end of the year negotiations on the agricultural reform will once again be marked by the opposing stands of the supporters of grants for farmers and production capacity on the one side, and the advocates of free-market competition on the other. In medio stat virtus . While it’s true that the economic relevance of agriculture is decreasing (and that therefore past indiscriminate subsidies today make no sense), it’s also true that in the 3rd millennium the respect for land and for food safety are vital issues for the quality of life at global level. Case by case and sector by sector new EU rules will need to ensure revenue, quality, competitiveness and environmental sustainability; a difficult albeit necessary task.6 – This is not the best moment for regional and cohesion policies. Structural Funds – whose programming period began as far as thirty-two months ago – are still marked by serious delays regarding commitment and expenditure. Not to mention the massive and inefficient control and accounting monitoring procedures that end up thwarting – instead of promoting – development. It is predictable that billions of Euros will be lost. In a number of Countries (those in Eastern Europe and bordering on the Mediterranean) this is the sign of a deadlocked system that needs to undergo radical changes.Half way through next year the Executive Commission will submit proposals regarding the reform of the sector due to be enforced after 2013. Officially, dialogue and consultations won’t begin before the definitive layout of the new College. Christmas is the final deadline to submit blueprints to the EP and to the Regions on which consistent negotiations can be developed. There are obviously many more hot issues, let us hope that those who have asked citizens for their vote and their trust will be able to handle them all.