The federalist solution “is not too popular in European organisations, indeed in some cases it’s opposed. But I believe that, in spite of that resistance, the United States of Europe are the only road to take”. The point was underscored by Foreign Minister Emma Bonino as she concluded her presentation at East Forum 2013 on the opportunities opened up by a federalist solution for the European Union.
Only federalism can reconcile democracy and freedom
In the EU at present, observed the Minister, the status quo is not good enough. And, since we don’t want to go backwards, the only alternative is to go forwards and take an important and bold step towards greater integration, with a “federalist” vision of Europe in our minds. She pointed out that “we now need to move quickly because the world around us is going even faster”. The integration process should go hand in hand with greater democratic legitimacy in the institutions and in European policies. “I don’t know of any model other than federalism that can hold 500 million people together in democracy and freedom. Where is the democratic element in an inter-Governmental Europe?” asked Minister Bonino.
Ideas, not just proposals are needed
Foreign Minister Bonino concluded by underscoring that in these politically and economically difficult times for Europe, we need ideas, not just concrete proposals. “Ladies and Gentlemen, we have run out of money, we shall now have to think”, she added, paraphrasing Winston Churchill.
