Europe equips itself for challenges ahead

The Equity Channel has produced a policy briefing outlining the main implications of the Treaty of Lisbon as they relate to health.

As the long-awaited Treaty of Lisbon enters into force, we can expect to see a more modern EU start to operate.

The Treaty consists of several institutional changes, new opportunities to deal with cross-border issues and a more prominent focus on citizens rights.

"With the new Treaty, the EU is strengthened in important areas,” said Swedish Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt, whose country currently holds the EU Presidency.

Of particular importance is the inclusion of a direct reference to the "wellbeing" of the population, which paves the way for a consideration of the impact of all EU policies on human wellbeing.

Citizens are given better protection through the charter of fundamental rights, which now has the same legal status as the EU treaties themselves.

Additionally, the new “European citizens initiative” allows people to make a request to the European Commission for it to propose a new initiative.

By providing a strengthened role for the European Parliament, as well as national parliaments, it is also hoped that the Treaty will help people to feel more involved in the EU decision-making processes.

You can access the briefing on our publications page.