The European Union stands at a crossroads. Rising nationalism, economic instability, and geopolitical threats demand a stronger, more united response. The Rome Manifesto (2017) first called for a “European Federal Union,” but its vision is dated by now and it remains incomplete — trapped between half-measures and real integration. Now, Together for Europe proposes a new effort: a crowdsourced redrafting of a true federal manifesto, and every European is invited to join.
Why the Rome Manifesto Needs an Update
The Rome Manifesto boldly champions European unity, yet it suffers from critical flaws, such as:
- A Weak Federal Core – While it proposes a “Federal Union,” it retains intergovernmental structures, like a Senate of national governments, which could paralyze decision-making.
- No Fiscal Safety Net – Its “no-bailout rule” would block the EU from stabilizing economies, risking another Eurozone crisis.
- Unclear Democracy – Should Europeans directly elect their president? Can citizens propose laws? The text dodges these questions.
A real federation demands more: shared sovereignty, robust democratic institutions, and solidarity—embedded in law and economics, not just rhetoric.
How We Can Fix It: A Citizen-Led Redraft
This time, reform won’t come from elites alone. Instead, starting with our open meeting in Brussels in the end of June (date TBA), we’re launching an open, participatory process in three key phases:
- Debate (June–July 2025) – Online discussions on urgent questions:
- Should the EU have a federal budget to manage crises?
- Should citizens, not governments, elect the Senate?
- How can we enforce democracy and rule of law across states?
- Drafting (Summer 2025) – A collaborative edit, where anyone can propose wording—or a completely new manifesto fit for today’s global challenges.
- Ratification (Autumn 2025) – Participants will vote on the final version, publishing it as the Citizen’s Federal Manifesto.
Why This Matters
The EU was built to prevent war and ensure prosperity—but today’s crises demand more than bureaucratic fixes. A true federation means:
✔ Democratic legitimacy, not backroom deals.
✔ Economic resilience, with shared fiscal tools to avert disasters.
✔ A Europe that protects its people, not just its borders.
This is no utopia. Federations like the U.S. and Germany prove shared sovereignty works. But Europe’s future must be shaped by its citizens—not just politicians.
Join the Movement
Everyone—students, workers, experts, activists—can contribute. Here’s how:
- Join Together for Europe: Join Us!
- Comment on the Rome Manifesto (email info@togetherforeurope.com and/or attend monthly meetings)
- Spread the word: #FederalEurope #TogetherforEurope
- Sign our petition: Europeans for the European Federal Union
The EU will either unite or fragment. The choice begins with us.