The future of Europe : solidarity and constitutionalism - towards a solidarity model

Abstract

This seminar paper. delivered to members of the Malta European Studies Association, formed the basis of a paper presented at a Conference organised by the EDRC, the Jean Monnet Professor of European Law and European Integration, and MESA in April,2002. The main theme of the paper is that of 'Unity in Diversity'. It seeks to present a 'Solidarity Model', without which, the author argues, it will prove much more difficult for an enlarged European Union to achieve its fundamental aim of bringing closer together, in cooperation, the peoples and states of Europe. The process of 'constitutionalisation' requires, it is argued, the proper articulation and implementation of a solidarity model based on the key constitutional value of Unity in Diversity.