With bailouts, stimulus and health care reform, one of the issues on the minds of the Americans is a proper role of government. The Europeans have been grappling with that issue for the past several years, as they have had difficulties ratifying the Treaty of Lisbon. In essence, this Treaty gives less power to national governments who will now be able to veto fewer decisions. It also gives more power to European institutions of presidency and parliament.

A few days ago, Irish voters have had their second referendum on the Lisbon treaty, which has resulted in its affirmation. Rather than slamming the door on the Treaty, however, this has created a great European political drama. The lead role belongs to British Tories, whose leader David Cameron has promised to hold a referendum on the Treaty, if the Treaty is, at that point, not ratified by all other countries.

Cameron is expected to be in power in about eight months. And, if this referendum is held it is widely expected that Lisbon Treaty would fail.

However, the Treaty is now almost ratified, with Poland and Czech Republic presidents’ signatures being the only thing missing. However, the president of Czech Republic is Vaclav Klaus – one of the most prominent and outspoken opponents of the Treaty.

In addition, 17 Czech senators have filed a motion with Czech constitutional court, in order to buy time. Not to be outdone, German pro-Lisbon officials have met with the president of the court in order to prevent the delay.

Would do you think the outcome will ultimately be? And, would you rather see EU more or less united (centralized)?

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