The Treaty Archive
Treaty of Lisbon
Trade Agreement

Treaty of Lisbon

Signed: 2007Lisbon

The Treaty of Lisbon redefined the European Union's institutional framework, enhancing its efficiency and democratic legitimacy.

Signed in 2007, the Treaty of Lisbon marked a significant reform of the European Union's institutional structure. It aimed to streamline decision-making processes and increase the EU's democratic legitimacy. The treaty introduced a permanent President of the European Council, enhanced the role of the European Parliament, and expanded qualified majority voting in the Council of the European Union. These changes were designed to address the challenges of an expanding EU, ensuring it could function effectively with 27 member states. The treaty also provided for greater coherence in foreign policy through the creation of the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. Despite initial resistance and the need for referenda in some member states, the treaty ultimately came into force on December 1, 2009, setting the stage for a more integrated and responsive European Union.

Chapters

1

Tensions

The Road to the Table

2

Negotiation

The Art of Diplomacy

3

Terms

What Was Agreed

4

Aftermath

The World Remade

5

Verdict

History's Judgment

Timeline

2007-06-21

European Council Agrees to Convene IGC

The European Council, meeting in Brussels, agrees to convene an Intergovernmental Conference to draft a new treaty to reform the EU's institutional framework.

2007-10-18

Breakthrough in Treaty Negotiations

The Intergovernmental Conference reaches a consensus on the final text of the Treaty of Lisbon, paving the way for its signing.

2007-12-13

Treaty of Lisbon Signed

The Treaty of Lisbon is signed by the heads of state and government of the EU member states at the Jer贸nimos Monastery in Lisbon, Portugal.

2008-06-12

Irish Referendum Rejects Treaty

Irish voters reject the Treaty of Lisbon in a referendum, creating uncertainty about the treaty's future.

2009-10-02

Second Irish Referendum Approves Treaty

Following assurances from the European Council, Irish voters approve the Treaty of Lisbon in a second referendum.

2009-11-03

Czech Constitutional Court Approves Treaty

The Czech Constitutional Court rules that the Treaty of Lisbon is in line with the Czech constitution, removing a major obstacle to ratification.

2009-11-13

Czech Republic Completes Ratification

Czech President V谩clav Klaus signs the Treaty of Lisbon, completing the ratification process and allowing the treaty to come into force.

2009-12-01

Treaty of Lisbon Enters into Force

The Treaty of Lisbon officially comes into force, introducing significant reforms to the EU's institutional framework.

2009-12-01

First Permanent EU Council President Appointed

Herman Van Rompuy is appointed as the first permanent President of the European Council, marking a new era of EU leadership.

2009-12-01

First High Representative Appointed

Catherine Ashton is appointed as the first High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, enhancing the EU's external action.

Connected Across The Archives

Explore specific connections to other archives鈥攃ivilizations, conflicts, dynasties, and companies that share history with this treaty.