Lisbon Treaty

Definition

The Lisbon Treaty is an international agreement that amended the two treaties which form the constitutional basis of the European Union (EU). It was signed in 2007 and came into force in 2009, aiming to enhance the efficiency and democratic legitimacy of the EU while improving coherence in its actions. The treaty also aimed to address challenges posed by globalization by strengthening the EU's ability to act on global issues.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Lisbon Treaty introduced a permanent President of the European Council, providing more continuity and visibility in EU leadership.
2. It also increased the powers of the European Parliament, allowing it to have a greater role in legislation and decision-making processes.
3. The treaty made provisions for a more streamlined decision-making process, particularly through the expanded use of Qualified Majority Voting.
4. One of its key goals was to enhance the EU's role on the global stage by incorporating a more coherent foreign policy framework.
5. The Lisbon Treaty established the legal personality of the EU, allowing it to enter into international agreements and join international organizations.

Review Questions

• How did the Lisbon Treaty change the political structure of the European Union?
  • The Lisbon Treaty significantly altered the political structure of the European Union by introducing a permanent President of the European Council, who oversees and represents EU policies. Additionally, it expanded the legislative powers of the European Parliament, enhancing its role in shaping laws alongside member states. These changes aimed to create a more efficient decision-making process and strengthen democratic legitimacy within the EU.
• Discuss how the Lisbon Treaty addresses challenges related to globalization.
  • The Lisbon Treaty sought to enhance the European Union's capacity to respond effectively to global challenges by establishing a more coherent foreign policy framework and improving inter-institutional collaboration. By strengthening its global presence, the EU aimed to play a more influential role in international matters such as trade negotiations, climate change, and security issues. This focus on global engagement reflects an awareness of how globalization impacts member states and underscores the necessity for collective action.
• Evaluate the significance of the Charter of Fundamental Rights in relation to the Lisbon Treaty and its implications for EU citizens.
  • The Charter of Fundamental Rights is significant as it consolidates essential rights for EU citizens into a single document that is legally binding under EU law following the Lisbon Treaty. This incorporation emphasizes the commitment of the EU to uphold fundamental rights such as dignity, freedom, equality, and justice. By making these rights enforceable, it not only enhances legal protection for individuals but also reinforces the democratic principles upon which the EU is built. The charter thus plays a critical role in shaping citizens' experiences within an increasingly integrated Europe.

Related terms

Maastricht Treaty:

An agreement that established the European Union and led to the creation of the euro, laying the foundation for deeper integration among member states.

Qualified Majority Voting: A voting system used in the EU Council, where decisions can be made based on a weighted voting system, ensuring that larger countries do not dominate smaller ones.

Charter of Fundamental Rights: A document that consolidates and enshrines the fundamental rights of EU citizens, making them legally binding within EU law.