The deputies of the Third Estate, i. e. the Bourgeoisie and the People, to the States-General of the Kingdom of France, had remained, against their will, apart from the other deputies, those of the Nobility and the Clergy, a certain number of whom had nevertheless joined them. On 20 June 1789, they were suddenly forbidden to meet. With resentment, but not without determination, they met anyway in a room dedicated to a popular ball game. In it, they swore “never to separate and to meet wherever circumstances require it, until the day when the constitution of the kingdom is established and consolidated on solid foundations”.
This was the truly first peaceful and responsible act of what is known as the French “Revolution” and, certainly, the first step towards the advent of democracy on the European continent.
Recently elected, the legitimate representatives of the European people, custodians of its intrinsic sovereignty, should imbue themselves with the lucidity and determination of their models of 235 years ago. They must solemnly impose a thorough overhaul of the European institutions to allow the definitive advent of democracy at this level. Only they can free these institutions from the undue tutelage of the governments of the Member States, which continue to interfere by claiming to be the only legitimate interpreters of the common good.
To establish at last a democratically legitimate European government, controlled by a bicameral Parliament, it is up to them to draw up a genuine European constitution as soon as possible, which the Member States that accept it will then submit to the People for approval.
François Mennerat |
Jean Marsia |