So Europe has a President

The Young European Federalists (JEF-Europe) welcome the conclusion of the inter-governmental negotiations to find a new President for the European Commission. However, JEF-Europe regrets the atmosphere and spirit in which the negotiations have been conducted.

"The proposal of a President for the Union's Executive should be a model of democracy and tranparency to inspire Europe's citizens", said Jon Worth, President of JEF-Europe.

"Sadly power politics, back room dealing and secretive negotiations have instead dominated."

"National governments should recognise that the ability of the new President is more important than the country he was born in. Europe's citizens should and will not accept mediocrity as a consequence of a lack of vision from national heads of state."

"The only positive development that we have seen is the party-politicisation of the discussion," continued Jon Worth.

"We need to build on this to work towards the creation of real Europe-wide political debate and political parties."

"If supported by a majority of members of the European Parliament, Mr. Barosso will face a challenging task ratifying the Constitution, smoothly integrating the 10 new member states and reforming the Union's policies and administration."

"He will need to show strong leadership and vision to help the EU meet the expections of European citizens."

JEF-Europe has long campaigned for a truly federal structure for the European Union with the European Commission becoming a government for the EU, held to account by the European Parliament.