December 13, 2003

Commenting on the failure of the EU Summit in Brussels today, President of the Young European Federalists (JEF-Europe) Jon Worth stated: "The failure of the summit is a failure for European democracy."

"A lack of agreement on the text is an extremely worrying sign. It shows that Europe is lacking leadership, lacking vision, and will continue to lack coherency."

"If all states behaved like they have behaved today, we would not even have a European Union!"

"The hopes for the next few months are slim. Agreement has not been possible now, so what hope is there that things suddenly improve in the New Year?"

JEF-Europe has welcomed the attempts made by the Convention to consult widely and aim to achieve a positive consensus for Europe. The text produced by the Convention - while not perfect - was an attempt to right some of the historic difficulties of European integration.

"The Convention text is still valid as a positive compromise," continued Jon Worth. "When the leaders try to resolve their difficulties in the New Year, they must reflect once more on the enduring validity and legitimacy of the work of the Convention."

"We must not delude ourselves: today has been an unacceptable setback on the road towards a democratic Europe."

"JEF urges all leaders to not let the EU further descend into raw and unpleasant competition of national interests."

Your Press Contact:
Jon Worth, President.
president@jef-europe.net
Tel: +32 485 449763
http://www.jef-europe.net/