The position of the majority of the European Parliament for the abolition of unanimity in EU decision-making is a negative development

 

23 November 2023, AKEL C.C. Press Office, Nicosia

The marginal approval by the European Parliament of the report on changes to the Treaties of the EU is a negative development for our country and its interests. The abolition of unanimity (veto) in EU decision-making even in the crucial areas of foreign policy and defence will strengthen the hegemony of the powerful member states and deepen further the democratic deficit in the functioning of the Union.

This issue directly touches on the sovereignty of our country and foreshadows a further shrinking and curbing of the voice of the smaller EU member states. The slim majority by which the report was approved is indicative of the opposition to the proposed change.

AKEL opposes the abolition of unanimity and that is precisely why the AKEL MEP’s voted against the report as a whole. Both the government, which now officially declares that it is ready to discuss the abolition of unanimity, and DISY party, which abstained in the European Parliament vote yesterday, owe explanations to the Cypriot people.

Cyprus must defend its interests and its voice.