Timeframe: On-going
Project managers: Jörgen Hettne, Fredrik Langdal and Göran von Sydow

In the light of the comprehensive reform in 2007 agreed by the Heads of State and Government, Sieps has in 2008 focused on an in-depth analysis of the Treaty of Lisbon. The main objectives have been to understand what the amendments introduced by the Treaty mean and to identify new questions that may arise. A large part of this work has focused on the ratification process in the EU Member States. Although this work to some extent continues, the focus in 2009 and 2010 moves to issues beyond the Treaty of Lisbon.

Of particular importance is the constitutional development that continues regardless of what happens to the Lisbon Treaty but also issues that arise if this Treaty enters into force; its implementation and impact. These issues will be central to the Swedish Presidency in 2009.

In the light of the conclusions already drawn from the recent reform efforts, there is reason to study the ability of the EU to reform itself as well as to examine the requirements for treaty change in the EU's treaties and the national constitutions.