A more democratic and transparent Europe, strengthening the role of the EU and national Parliaments, and giving the people more opportunities to make their voices heard.
These are the most expected aspects of the Lisbon Treaty realisation.
Its coming into force (December 2009) was only the start of a course of discovery and implementation that will give concrete results if it will involve, in the years to come, all European citizens to make them closer to institutions, at present perceived as far away, and make them active and participatory.
The Municipality of Thiene (IT), the Urban Center and ALDA promoted an info-day about the Lisbon Treaty and the perspectives it will open on participation.
The event is scheduled for the 10th of February (Meeting hall of the City Library, starting at 9:30).
In the morning Meps Mara Bizzotto and Debora Serracchiani, Mr Matteo Fornara, EC Office in Milano, Mrs Maria Rita Busetti, Mayor of Thiene and Mrs Antonella Valmorbida, ALDA Director, moderated by the journalist Antonio Di Lorenzo, will explore the opportunities for citizens by the Treaty.
In the afternoon two workshops will take place, where participants will discuss about decision making process and civil society participation, and the role of the local authorities in Europe after the Treaty.
There are already many ways in which European citizens can find out about and take part in the political process of the EU. The newest of these is the citizens’ initiative, whereby people will be able to ask the Commission to present a proposal in any of the EU’s areas of responsibility. The practical details of this initiative will be worked out once the Treaty of Lisbon takes effect.
The treaty also recognises the importance of consultation and dialogue with associations, civil society, workers and employers, churches and other non-denominational organisations.