Transparency in the EU

It has taken more than eight years for the European Union to be in a position to implement the Lisbon Treaty, two key provisons of which are the creation of a president to represent and co-ordinate the twenty seven member states in world matters, and a head of foreign affairs to do something similar.  The idea of these apppintments was controversial, particularly with those people who feared it would erode national sovereignty even further than has occurred already.

Last night the appointments were made, and I predict they will bring little change to the status quo.  Just as ratification of the Lisbon Treaty was done to all intents and purposes without consultation of the people of Europe, and with evident manipulation of the process in certain circumstances to ensure the desired result, so the selection process took place with so little transparency that even the names of the different candidates were kept secret.

We are seing evidenced once again how the EU is controlled by a small number of people, two in particular have the power to influence, coerce and decide what happens and how without openness or accountability.  On this occasion it has been so blatent that questions will, inevitably, be asked.   Further evidence will become visible quite soon, and then a system that is simple, open and fair can and will replace one that is outmoded and based on vested interest.  An outraged community will demand it.