The EU Constitution: in search of Europe’s international identity

Abstract:

These lectures are given to honour Walter van Gerven, emeritus professor at the Katholieke Univesiteit Leuven and former Advocate-General at the Court of Justice of the European Communities.

This fourth lecture considers the Constitution in the context of the international identity of Europe. It argues that the Constitution’s contribution to defining an international identity for Europe may be the boldest of the new features it introduces and subsequently that might be the persuasive factor in stimulating a sense of European solidarity sufficient to see a ratification of the Constitution.

The lecture will interest scholars and students engaged in European Studies, European Governance and European Integration.

Gráinne de Búrca is Professor of European Union Law at the European University Institute, Florence.