In the wake of 2016 and the rise of Euroscepticism, the current European leaders seem to be afraid of the democratic process, and would like to avoid the ballot if possible. This is not an option. The future of the peoples of Europe will be decided through the ballot. Avoiding the ballot only delays the issue and reinforces the legitimacy of Eurosceptic movements.
However, the topic of a continental constitution and the implications of a European federation are too abstract to be submitted to a public referendum. We remember the results of the European Constitution ratification process of 2005, and we have learned from its failure.
Instead of repeating the mistakes of the past, a new way forward must be devised, a way which respects the democratic process, gives people a direct voice, and also utilizes democratic representation to deal with such a complex issue in a proper way.
To ensure the legitimacy and authority of the European Federation, such far-reaching changes should be adopted through a balanced process, distinguishing between two main phases of constitutional establishment: drafting and ratification.
The drafting should be undertaken by a Drafting College, a European group of legislators tasked with negotiating and drafting the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Europe, while the ratification should be undertaken by a Ratification Convention, directly elected through popular vote, with the explicit and only task of approving or rejecting the drafted constitution.
In conclusion, one of the most critical aspects in the long-term success of the Republic is that the people should be given a direct voice in adopting it. No other process can have the credibility needed to ensure long-term stability.
Our tangible goal is to make our vision for a European Federation the most prominent public question until the next European Parliament election cycle.
Join us and bring back reason into the world
Once the federation is achieved, we can move on with our mission: to elevate Europe to its natural place of leadership in the world, and to re-establish reason as the primary governing principle of the liberal world order.
We believe that by working together and leveraging the diversity of our continent, we can achieve our goals and create a better future for all Europeans. We invite all Europeans who share our vision to join us in this effort.
Together, we can create a sovereign and united Europe that is able to lead the world and defend our values and way of life.