Future Direction of Travel (De Lege Ferenda)

Abstract

Based on the previous chapters, this chapter addresses the need of an additional EU narrative, complementing and not replacing the initial narrative of safeguarding peace. This chapter also argues for an additional value of environmental protection, shifting from an anthropocentric to a more bio-centric approach. The EU has initially focussed on humans, the ECJ has recently added ‘animal welfare’ as an additional value, and following the ‘one health’ approach, this book argues for also adding environmental protection as a new EU value. The book also argues for a more communitarian Union, not replacing rights of individuals, but at the same time strengthening the sense of community. Finally, as various values mainly address the EU and/or the EU Member States, this book also suggests certain virtues (character traits that also need to be practiced), drawing on inspiration from other parts of the world.