CIDOB Opinion 662 of April 2021 discusses the Conference on the Future of Europe, initiated by Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission. The conference aims to engage citizens in the development of a closer Union that addresses their concerns.
Initiated in May 2021, the conference presents both opportunities and risks. It offers a chance to involve the public in building a more citizen-centric EU. However, some critics view it as a mere repetition ("déjà vu"), potentially diverting attention from more pressing tasks.
The conference is led by a tripartite presidency among institutions, instead of a single figure like Guy Verhofstadt, due to resistance from some states. It is supported by strong technological capabilities and is backed by the three institutions. Its outcomes will be determined by these bodies and implemented subsequently. The conference is set to last one year, instead of the originally planned two.
The conference's agenda remains open-ended but is expected to include priorities outlined in von der Leyen's five-year program, such as combating climate change, promoting gender equality and social justice, migration, fundamental values and rights, digitalization, and the EU's global role. The pandemic is also anticipated to introduce health as a topic. Issues related to EU elections, like "spitzenkandidaten" or transnational lists, might be discussed. Potential topics include fiscal policy, new budgetary resources, and the "Next Generation EU". However, the short timeline necessitates simplification and prioritization.
While not aiming to replace the EU Constitution through a referendum, the conference focuses on defining the future EU rather than deciding on it. Those expecting it to lead to a federal constitution may face disappointment. Similarly, those viewing it as a step towards deliberative democracy should temper expectations.
The conference occurs amidst sensitive times for the EU internally and externally. Internally, the EU's image among its citizens, which was improving, could be challenged by pandemic-related issues. Externally, despite the US's political changes, new threats loom, requiring the EU's definition. The conference can influence these situations positively or negatively.
For von der Leyen, the conference is crucial as she faces criticism over her management of the pandemic and her weak majority. If the initiative fails, dialogues with citizens may lose value, making future initiatives difficult.
The conference is presented as an equal dialogue among institutions, states, and civil society. However, the main actor should be citizens, who have other platforms. Within civil society, youth participation is prioritized. High participation is key to success, as well as tangible changes in the EU's operation and a lasting mechanism for continuous consultation.
