Conclusions

Abstract

Contrary to recent loud voices arguing that Europe is a failing project, we have submitted that European integration must not be abandoned, as Europeanisation is still very much a worthy idea. We have recognised that the European project is facing major challenges and believe that the debate on European integration is topical. We have suggested this after looking at the evolution of the EU project mainly focusing on its post-Lisbon ten years’ developments on fundamental rights. By shifting attention to values, we have argued that the foundation of the European project becomes stronger, away from a logic of crisis and is focused on a logic of legitimacy. As our research has confirmed, the existing legal and political framework is already slowly departing from a pure market ideology. A shift of focus from an internal, and sometimes rather technical, functioning of the European machinery to a wider understanding of the realities and the needs of European peoples and States has been identified in our research as a way forward for Europe. Our study has assessed whether and how much the EU approximates or departs from its market model by locating the sources of analysis on the higher fundamental norms at constitutional level and observing the operation of the main actors of integration within the European human rights arena. We have concluded that especially today, it is vital and even indispensable to a more comprehensive and broader understanding of the whole project, to shift the focus on values. Capturing Pierre Pescatore’s thought, we recognise that EU law is a source of inspiration for other projects of regional integration in the world, firstly for the concept of sovereignty, its transfer and divisibility; secondly, for the introduction of a separation of powers within international organisations; thirdly, for the establishment of an international law-making mechanism for the creation of rules enjoying direct effect; and, finally, for introducing obligatory judicial review. As also argued by other scholars, the contribution of the European Union (EU), has been extremely significant in advancing the understanding of the nature and legal personality of international organisations; in inspiring innovations in the law of treaties, such as mixed agreements and EU membership in international organisations, and in serving as a model for international integration, albeit mostly economic. What is evident is that the EU, as a polity, has demonstrated the capacity to develop over the years. As part of a long evolutionary process that began in 25 March 1957 with the signing of the Treaty of Rome, what was then the European Economic Community (EEC) has now developed into the EU. This unique experiment did not follow a single plan, it went far beyond an Economic Community that would ensure peace and prosperity in the continent and a common market between its Member States with no taxes, customs, borders and barriers. The pathway was not free from obstacles, disappointments and missed opportunities and the evolution process continues. Sixty years later the EU is still trying to reflect on its achievements, assess its progress and, most importantly, determine its next steps.