Letters: Jun. 27, 2005

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Re you Notebook item "The Naysayers of Europe" on the French and Dutch referendums on the European Union's constitution [June 13]: I wonder how many citizens would vote in favor of the constitution of their own country if they were asked to. Is it legitimate to ask people to vote on something the consequences of which they don't understand?

ILJA FELDSTEIN -- Lutry, Switzerland

Reality Check for the E.U.

The defeat inflicted in the referendums is not a failure for the idea of a united Europe as a whole [June 13]. Quite the contrary: it represents a purely political choice in opposition to the neoliberal character of Europe today and in favor of a Europe that is more socially conscious and responsive. It is also a vote against the élitism and arrogance of the Brussels bureaucracy, which presumes it can complete its version of European unification without ever consulting directly with the citizens of Europe. Finally, it is the starting point of a new political era in the European Union, in which issues are openly contested in public rather than settled through secret diplomacy behind closed doors.

PANOS DRAKOS -- Athens

It is rare that one hears of the progress that has been made since the movement toward the unification of Europe began. Jobs have been created and the market potential of E.U. countries improved. Non-European companies have established production facilities in E.U. nations. Free trade and democracy can result only in economic growth and political stability. The power of political and social solidarity that the E.U. provides has been proved over and over again to be the right choice for progress. Unfortunately, however, personal prejudices and lack of knowledge often hinder valid decisions by the people who are voting on the constitution.

TOM McMURTRY -- St. Paul, France