ROBERT BADINTER HOLDS LECTURE AT ZAGREB UNIVERSITY

ZAGREB, April 17 (Hina) - Honorary doctor of Zagreb University Robert Badinter on Thursday claimed that Europe should strive for a greater level of institutional unity because this is not just an economically common space but one of common values and countries that share common cultural destinies. #L# He pointed out that Europe must be stronger and more united. At a lecture about Europe's future, held at Zagreb University on the occasion of being bestowed with the honorary doctorate, Badinter said that European citizens should see on television a president of the EU in addition to their own country presidents. This must be a charismatic figure who will testify to Europe's unity, he said. What is a union if it is not personified, he said, adding that in that case citizens did not experiencing it as something important. Badinter is a professor of law, attorney, politician and playwright. Europe today needs to posses an idea of constitutional patriotism, like that seen in post-war Germany, it needs moral authority, and those who believe that the poisons that led to wars in Europe have disappeared are too optimistic, he said. It remains to be seen how the political games surrounding the constitution will end, Badinter said, adding the constitution is like a clock that has worked consistently for a long time, having only thus become worthwhile. There are too many compromises in diplomatic negotiations over the constitution and so instead of coming up with a good machine, one could end up with some vague construction, he said. Europe is experiencing a difficult phase because from the original six countries it is expanding to a community of 25 countries and as such it is necessary to adapt its institutions, which has led to a difference of opinion, he said. A draft constitution has to be submitted by June for member countries to inspect, and it will either be adopted or not exist at all, Badinter said. He added that so far fundamental values had been determined in the constitution, as well as the rule of law as a guaranteor for fundamental human rights. The third section deals with common istitutions and this is where differences arise, he said. Communalists are seeking stronger unity and a firmer European Union, while sovereignists are seeking stronger independent countries, said Badinter. It is important that the community has more authority, he added, concluding that those who oppose a strong and united EU are clients, or frankly put, U.S. servants. (hina) sp ha