The Lisbon Treaty came into force today at the end of nearly eight years of controversy, debate and rebellion about the shape of the future European Union
The Treaty began life as a “Constitution” — a revised, streamlined, set of rules to make the expanded EU of 27 countries run more smoothly.
The “Constitution” which was signed by EU leaders, was derided by euro sceptics as a federalist blueprint eroding national sovereignty.
Britain was expected to resist it, but it was rejected by two of the founding EU countries first.
France and the Netherlands rejected it in referendums in 2005, throwing the EU into crisis.
After a “period of reflection”, Europe’s leaders re-named a watered-down version as a Treaty and signed it again, in Lisbon two years ago.
Ireland rejected the Lisbon Treaty in a referendum in June 2008, but went on to reverse the decision in a second public vote two months ago.
Even then, final treaty approval was delayed, by Czech President Vaclav Klaus, who was reluctant to add his signature to complete the 27-nation ratification process.
The resulting Treaty is being marked by celebrations on the continent, not least in Lisbon, where European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso will join the new EU President of the Council Herman Van Rompuy for ceremonies including music, speeches and fireworks.
Mr Barroso said “the Treaty of Lisbon puts citizens at the centre of the European project. I’m delighted that we now have the right institutions to act, and a period of stability, so that we can focus all our energy on delivering what matters to our citizens.”
PA