De grondwet is dood, leve de...

The European Constitution is dead. The Netherlands turned it down with an overwhelming majority of 62%, with a turnout of 63%. Both number are much higher than expected. The people in the original nucleus of the European Communities are fed up with decisions taken over their heads.
The tone of the Dutch politicians in the aftermath was certainly different from France: less arrogance. The voter has spoken and his/her voice should be brought to Brussels, was the general purport. The Dutch government is going to express the doubts of the Dutch people and is going to try to reduce the yawning gap between the EU and its citizens. A noble intention, but we'll see whether they have success or not.