The EU – Model without Citizens?
Saturday 31 January 2009, 19.00 – 20.30
The European Union is attractive; all the new Eastern European countries want to become members. Certainly, citizens of the Western members are not against the EU; however, many reject the ambitious development plans of the leadership. The gap between the political elites and the citizens is bigger than ever. The rejection of the "constitutional contract" in the Netherlands and France, as successor to Ireland, sends a clear message.- Has the EU reached the limits in its development?
- Does the EU have a democracy deficit? How much can citizens participate?
- How can the EU strengthen trust and the sense of belonging? What reforms are necessary?
- Can the experiences of Switzerland help the EU?
Guests:
Andi Gross, National Councillor; leader of the socialdemocrats in the Parlamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, Switzerland
Michael Reiterer, Ambassador, Delegation of the European Commission to Switzerland
Moderation:
Lukas Schmutz, Radio DRS
Closing Remarks:
André Schneider, Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer, World Economic Forum
Thomas Wipf, President of the Council, Federation of Swiss Protestant Churches