On December 1, the Lisbon Treaty entered into force, streamlining and enhancing the European Union’s capacity to play an active role on the world stage. The two senior policy positions created by the Treaty—the president of the European Council and the high representative for foreign affairs and security policy—have been filled. However, the selections prompted criticism and skepticism, with observers pointing out the relative obscurity of the two officials and asking whether the Lisbon Treaty really represents a breakthrough for Europe.
On December 16, the Center on the United States and Europe at Brookings and the Heinrich Böll Foundation hosted a panel of experts to explore the implementation of the Lisbon Treaty and its potential for transforming Europe and transatlantic relations. The event is part of a series of briefings and discussions on the future of the European Union.
After the program, panelists took audience questions.