The Treaty of Lisbon was signed on 13 December 2007 and entered into force on 1 December 2009. It amends existing Treaties and provides a new legal basis for integration. Article 79.4 states

"The European Parliament and the Council, acting in accordance with the ordinary legislative procedure, may establish measures to provide incentives and support for the action of Member States with a view to promoting the integration of third-country nationals residing legally in their territories, excluding any harmonisation of the laws and regulations of the Member States".

^ Back to top