What are the strengths and weaknesses of the draft Constitution in the area of Justice and Home Affairs?
The draft Constitution is very positive in the area of Justice and Home Affairs. The change in Council voting to QMV is welcome and the procedural shift to codecision (with a few exceptions) will allow greater balance and democracy. A very positive area of the draft constitution is the objective of respecting fundamental rights and fairness to third country nationals and the establishment of minimum standards balanced with the goal of a high level of security. However, there are certain weaknesses which still need to be addressed, including a reduction in the power of national Parliaments. This means it is important to ensure that legislation has substantial checks and balances. Overall the draft constitution has a lot of benefits in the area of Justice and Home Affairs, especially by subjecting legislation to joint authority by elected members and the assurance of full judicial control by EU courts. What impact will the introduction of the codecision procedure (between the Council and
