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fundamentals 1 - 5

1. Citizens can also call for constitutional amendments

The implementing law should make it clear that constitutional amendments can be proposed. The European Constitution regulates much more specific policy content than national constitutions. It enables both the Commission and the EU Parliament to propose amendments to the Constitution.

2. No more than one million citizens

The collection of one million signatures in a significant number of member states is a sufficient hurdle.

3. Four member states counts as ‘significant’

An initiative should not be required to collect signatures in more than 4 member states.

4. Minimum number of signatures: 0.1 %

The required minimum number of signatures coming from each country (see Point 3) should be 0.1% of the citizens entitled to vote.

5. Time period: 18 months

Initiatives should have enough time for collection of the signatures. A short time period would disadvantage smaller groups.

 

fundamentals 6 - 10...

 

European Citizens’ Initiative (Art. I-47-4)

"Not less than one million citizens who are nationals of a significant number of Member States may take the initiative of inviting the Commission, within the framework of its powers, to submit any appropriate proposal on matters where citizens consider that a legal act of the Union is required for the purpose of implementing the Constitution. European laws shall determine the provisions for the procedures and conditions required for such a citizens´ initiative, including the minimum number of Member States from which such citizens must come."

Art. I-47-4 of the draft European Constitution

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