Developments in the 'Old' Member States

The year 2004 was expected to be a dangerous year for many European Union leaders, at least in electoral terms. A new cycle of general or local elections promised to be difficult for some governments in power. There were also the direct elections to the European Parliament, scheduled for June, that were traditionally conceived as "second order elections." These were dreaded by man an unpopular government in Europe, as most of them lived in fear of a mid-term effect which could prove a worrying - if not, in some cases, disastrous - sign of democratic illegitimacy that could impede their action. Other important elections in the "old" Member States included the presidential elections in Austria in April, local elections in the UK in June, and general elections in Luxembourg, also in June. Many rejoiced over finding agreement on a constitutional Treaty. It was hoped that this would give Member State governments and the European Union a better image among the public.