Taking Europe into the 21st century

The Treaty of Lisbon entered into force on 1 December 2009. It provides the EU with modern institutions and optimised working methods to tackle both efficiently and effectively today's challenges in today's world. In a rapidly changing world, Europeans look to the EU to address issues such as globalisation, climatic and demographic changes, security and energy. The Treaty of Lisbon reinforces democracy in the EU and its capacity to promote the interests of its citizens on a day-to-day basis. More ››

What’s new?

• 09/02/2010 - New commission set to take office

  President Barroso’s new team wins backing from parliament.

• 04/01/2010 - Lisbon treaty to be focus of Spanish presidency

  Economic revival, the EU’s global standing and citizens’ rights also top the Spanish agenda.

• 03/12/2009 - The European Parliament and the Treaty of Lisbon

  The Treaty gives the European Parliament more power to shape Europe than ever before by increasing its legislative power. The Parliament is now on an equal footing with the Council in the co-decision procedure, which has been extended to areas such as immigration, the EU budget and energy. The aim is to make the EU more accountable to its citizens.

• 01/12/2009 - Lisbon treaty - a fresh start for the EU

  New EU treaty ushered in with blaze of fireworks in the city where it all began.