Sixty years ago, Europe confronted the aftermath of the most devastating war in history. A new generation of Europeans was determined to build a better future out of the wreckage as partners rather than rivals. It was a bold experiment – and it worked. The European Union has brought unprecedented peace and prosperity to its member states and helped entrench democracy and respect for human rights.

Yet despite its massive achievements, not everyone seems happy about the direction in which Europe is heading. This point was driven home by the rejection of the European constitution in the Netherlands and in France, both founding member states.