The Treaty of Lisbon and Civil Protection in the European Union

The Treaty of Lisbon aims at rendering the EU more democratic, legitimate and more efficient. This study highlights the opportunities and the challenges brought about by the Treaty of Lisbon for the area of Civil Protection within the EU. The area of Civil Protection is for the first time formalized as a specific policy-area in the EU through the Treaty of Lisbon. A solidarity clause is introduced as well. From a short-term perspective no specific consequences from the area are expected. However, from a long-term perspective incentives are given to further deepen the cooperation within the area. moreover, the Treaty of Lisboa will make it important for Member States to act pre-emptively in the policy process of the EU and to build alliances in order to pursue national interests within Civil Protection. The adoption of new legislation in the area will according the Treaty of Lisboa in adopted through the co-decisional procedure between the Council and the European Parliament and through qualified majority voting in the Council. Good relations and cooperation with the European Parliament will therefore also be imperative. Finally, a new Standing Committé on Internal Security within the Council is introduced. Depending on its exact function and composition, Civil Protection may be affected.