A Call for EU Reform: Antonio Tajani's Vision for Change

Italy's Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani suggests major reforms in the EU's institutional structure to enhance its global influence. Key proposals include combining leadership roles, removing veto powers, empowering the European Parliament, and reducing bureaucracy to foster efficiency and democracy.

In a recent interview with Corriere della Sera, Italy's Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani stressed the urgent need for institutional reform within the European Union to counteract its waning global influence. Tajani, representing the centrist Forza Italia party, outlined several strategic proposals aimed at revitalizing the EU's role on the world stage.

Foremost among his ideas is the merger of the European Commission president and the president of the European Council roles, advocating for a direct election by the citizenry to enhance democratic legitimacy. Additionally, he proposes the elimination of individual countries' veto power in numerous policy areas, a move he believes would streamline decision-making processes.

Tajani also emphasized the necessity for the European Parliament to gain legislative initiative powers, allowing it to propose new laws directly. Moreover, he called for a reduction in EU bureaucracy, advocating for a policy of scrapping two regulations for every new one introduced. Such reforms, Tajani argues, are essential for the EU to maintain its relevance and contributions to global affairs.

(With inputs from agencies.)