Lisbon Treaty

A legally binding agreement signed by all EU member states in 2007, which amended the two previous treaties constituting the legal framework of the European Union, those being the Treaty of Rome (1957) and the Maastricht Treaty (1992). Brought into force in 2009, the Treaty of Lisbon introduced structural reforms within the Union’s decision- making structures as well as extending areas of legislation and intervention of the EU. Changes included the move from unanimity to qualified majority voting in several policy areas within the European Council, an extension of the legislative power of the European Parliament, and the creation of figures such as a long-term President of the European Council and the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy heading the European External Action Service.