… and it’s a ‘NO’

.. according to a live broadcasting of Euronews, it looks like Ireland has just rejected the Lisbon Treaty (they are still waiting for the official result announcement), throwing the EU into a new crisis.

What went wrong? Many things, but no doubt the EU lack of communication is the most important factor. Once again, the European Institutions are rushing in, without trying first to obtain if not the agreement at least the opinion of the ‘masses’. Or making sure they do really know what they are voting for.

Most of the European citizens are not really informed on EU matters, so when they have to make a decision they feel they are pressured to vote according to others’ interests, not to their own, and the natural reaction is ‘NO’, no matter what.

Conclusion - don’t treat them as sheep, if you want them to sing like birds.

Later edit: it’s official, it’s a ‘NO’. I think it was 53% NO and 47% YES (I do not know Irish language;strange that Euronews did not have particularly today an Irish translator. No wonder the small countries feel ignored). I just hope the European Institutions have learned their lesson and try a different approach, like addressing to common people, too, not only to the politicians (who, anyway, are not trusted in their countries).

PS. I tried to see the breaking news on Romanian channels. Fat chance! Nothing beyond the football match with Italy and here and there something about the local elections. Unfortunately, I don’t think Romania is an exception. QED.