Treaty of Lisbon facts for kids
The Treaty of Lisbon is an important agreement signed on 13 December 2007. It was signed by 27 countries that are part of the European Union (EU). This treaty started working on 1 December 2009.
It's like a rulebook for how the EU works. It helps the member countries work together on many things. The Treaty of Lisbon improved on older agreements, like the Treaty of Rome and the Treaty of Maastricht. It brought in some big changes for the EU.
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What the Treaty of Lisbon Changed
The Treaty of Lisbon made the European Union stronger and more organized. It created new roles and gave more power to elected representatives.
A New EU President
The treaty created a job called the President of the European Council. This person leads meetings of the EU's top leaders. They help guide the EU's overall work. It's important to know this is not a "President of the European Union." That job doesn't exist.
A Top Diplomat for the EU
Another new role was the High Representative for Foreign Affairs. This person is like the EU's main diplomat. They speak for the EU on the world stage. They also help manage the EU's foreign policy.
More Power for Your Voice
The European Parliament got a much stronger role. This is important because people in EU countries directly elect members of the European Parliament. This means your voice, through your elected representatives, has more say in EU decisions.
Faster Decisions with More Agreement
The treaty made it easier to make decisions. Many choices can now be made by a "qualified majority." This means that if a large number of countries agree, a decision can pass. Some very big decisions still need all countries to agree. But for many things, a strong majority is enough. This helps the EU act more quickly.
Better Safety and Justice
The Treaty of Lisbon also improved how police and justice work across Europe. It helps EU countries cooperate better on crime and legal matters. This makes the continent safer for everyone.
Images for kids
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Order in which countries ratified the Treaty (when green)
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The rights charter bans, among other things, capital punishment and eugenics
See also
In Spanish: Tratado de Lisboa para niños
