As a concept, united leagues of nations have been around for years and seem relatively straightforward: a common agreement between states to adhere to certain principles and regulations. Yet defining the limits of these partnerships is a little more tricky and raises questions about the autonomy of individual states from the group itself.
As the most cohesive international project in the world, these questions are particularly pertinent to the European Union, not least as the bloc faces literal threats (most obviously from Russia) and ideological ones (with populist movements promoting Euro-scepticism). And though support for the Union remains high, the bloc's leaders would overlook these challenges at their own peril.
This is precisely what the Conference on the Future of Europe has been trying to lay out, in robust terms that will coalesce pro-European sentiment and bring tangible benefits to the bloc's approximately 450 million citizens. Now, after a year of deliberation, civilians and lawmakers have drawn up 49 proposals that should set the EU agenda for the coming years.
Key concerns outline measures the Union can take to address major challenges felt at a national level, among them the green transition, growing inequality, and international security. Of course, EU leaders still have to decide how these rather nebulous ideals will be realised on the ground but all the same, a clear vision for the future is essential to directing future policies and galvanising public support.
What do you think are the EU's biggest challenges? Let @Orlando_tbt know.
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