The Laeken Declaration is a political document that sets out the priorities and values of the European Union (EU) for the then upcoming constitutional review. It was adopted by the European Council on 15 December 2001, at a summit held in Laeken, Belgium.
Key Points:
- Objective: The declaration aimed to chart the course for the future development and reform of the EU and the subsequent negotiations for a new constitutional treaty.
- Constitutional Process: The declaration called for a process of open debate and consultation with citizens and stakeholders to shape the future of Europe. It emphasized the importance of involving the public in discussions about the EU's future.
- Key Principles: The declaration reaffirmed the EU's fundamental principles, such as democracy, human rights, rule of law, and respect for diversity. It also stressed the importance of solidarity, security, justice, social welfare, and environmental protection in shaping EU policies and actions.
- Enlargement: The declaration acknowledged the upcoming enlargement of the EU to include new member states and the challenges and opportunities it posed. It called for reforms and adjustments to ensure the efficient functioning of the Union with an increased membership.
- Economic and Social Integration: The declaration highlighted the need to enhance the EU's competitiveness and economic growth while promoting social cohesion and reducing disparities. It advocated for a balance between economic freedom and social justice.
- Common Foreign and Security Policy: The declaration recognized the importance of a strong and common foreign and security policy to enhance Europe's influence in international affairs. It emphasized the need for more effective coordination and cooperation in defense and security matters.
- Institutional Reform: The document addressed the need for institutional reforms to streamline the EU's decision-making processes and make them more transparent, democratic, and accountable.
- New Constitutional Treaty: The Laeken Declaration paved the way for the negotiations and eventual adoption of the European Constitution, which sought to consolidate the EU's existing treaties, simplify institutional arrangements, and enshrine the values and objectives outlined in the declaration. However, the proposed treaty was rejected in referendums held in France and the Netherlands, leading to the subsequent negotiation and adoption of the Treaty of Lisbon in 2007, which implemented many of the constitutional reforms envisioned in the Laeken Declaration.