EU needs leadership

by Spyros A. Pappas *

Their efforts paid off thanks to their political determination and also to the presence of an executive assigned the task of defining the interests of all in a holistic manner. The executive's views were trusted, and this trust was honoured by expertise and neutrality. Accordingly, a primus inter pares has emerged, leading the way. However, this success itself was at the origin of their failure. While this cooperation was originally based on democratic principles at national level and on subsidiarity and transparency at the higher level (who does what?), the politicisation of this joint venture has eventually confused the partners, who began to claim "more democracy” at the higher level as well. As a result of the ensuing confusion of powers, the executive lost its predominance. Furthermore, quite a few new states joined in at an early stage, when this cooperation framework was not yet consolidated. This expansion watered down solidarity, since in such a large and economically still diverse community the partners' individual interests started to prevail over and compete with the common interest – which thus could not be defended anymore. A gloomy period followed, during which the partnership resisted these changes. But then one of the partners got in serious trouble, and it began to blame the others, who in turn refused to treat the problem as a common one and started looking instead after their own particular interests. Cacophony replaced dialogue and wisdom, and the quest for a solution that would accommodate the interests of all was abandoned. This state of affairs lasted for a long time. Trust was replaced by mistrust, and the union slowly broke down into weakened and vulnerable entities that become the spoils of their competitors.

Obviously, this is not the fate that awaits the European Union, since its strength is rooted in and cemented by its culture. Nonetheless, to ward off such an eventuality, now is the time for the European Commission to reclaim its responsibility. In its capacity as executive and, after consulting all parties involved, it should courageously and meticulously define and redefine the common interest. Let the five presidents’ report of 22 June be the signal of a new beginning. The EU needs a point of reference, and this role cannot but be assumed by the president of the European Commission. The EU cannot be allowed to be caught up in the power games of nations. Now is the time for all concerned parties to assume their historic responsibilities, set aside their selfish considerations and move forward. There is still a lot to be done, and Greece is and will remain part of this Union, come rain or shine.

* Spyros A. Pappas is a member of the Athens and Brussels Bar Associations