The outcome of the Irish referendum definitely ranks high on the agenda, and more time than initially expected shall now be devoted to this situation. The Slovenian Presidency has stated that it will invite Ireland’s Prime Minister to “explain the reasons for this outcome”. Eighteen member states have ratified the Lisbon Treaty so far, and the European Commission has encouraged those remaining to continue with the process, the emphasis being made on the fact that this was a national issue, rather than a European one.

A matter that is crying out loudly for urgent attention is undoubtedly the increase in food prices. The problem, at least if not kept in check, is already exacerbating the difficulties which vulnerable populations in developing countries usually deal with. The European Union is not immune either. This too will be discussed at the European Council, where the leaders of member states will analyse the implications of the various political tools at hand, including those on trade, development and the common agricultural policy (CAP).

It may be safe to assume that the hike in fuel prices shall also find its way in the discussion. With strikes across the continent at times disrupting the carriage of goods and fuel, and some ports being blocked, the European Commission is calling on the member states to apply targeted measures that would assist those citizens who are most at risk in the face of the relentless increase in fuel prices.

The Commission has however not stopped short from passing a word of caution – lifestyles may have to change and both businesses and private citizens must do their bit to reduce Europe’s dependence on fossil fuel imports – if not for our environment, the situation has now reached a stage where the purse is also feeling the pinch. Dr Joe Borg, EU Commissioner on Maritime Affairs, has recently made statements addressed to the fisheries sector, affirming that the situation has become more difficult for fishermen, adding that while short-term action may be considered, the real solution lies in attaining targets on the longer-term - investing in more efficient equipment is one of them.

Energy and climate policies are also set to be involved in the fuel price debate, with proposals including a more rapid drive towards energy-efficient businesses and households, making commercial oil stocks more transparent and a summit for the main fuel producing and consuming countries.

Other items on the agenda include a possible reconfirmation of a European prospect for the Western Balkans, key aspects of the Lisbon Strategy, the progress being attained in the implementation of the Millennium Development Goals and ways of possibly hastening the process, and the eastern dimension of the European Neighbourhood Policy.

The ‘Union for the Mediterranean’ may also be discussed, in preparation for the launching summit set to be held in Paris on 13 July. Over the past few days a number of statements have been made by African governments, seeking clarifications but also questioning the way it shall operate, and these may have to be addressed to move forward on this front.

The Slovenian Presidency, the first involving a post-2004 member sate, has been characterised by a number of interesting developments (such as the recent political agreement on the much-discussed review of the Working Time Directive), as well as by various challenges which may best be faced with a common front (such as the rapid rise in commodity prices). The ‘No’ result in Ireland, coming so close at the end of this chapter will obviously leave its mark. During the next term, under the French Presidency, such issues shall be faced again and solutions must be sought and obtained, if the European Union is to continue moving forward successfully.

Julian Micallef is Civil Society Coordinator at Forum Malta fl-Ewropa