In the wake of the ratification of the Constitution of Lisbon, the European Union must now also contend with the central question of a living democracy. Whereas during the French Revolution there was extensive bloodshed, today a new civilized culture of citizen participation has emerged: the European Citizens' Initiative. The initiative allows Europeans the formidable opportunity to actively participate in the shaping of their Union, to get involved, and to be heard. This book is not merely a plea for a European Citizen's participation movement. Instead, by offering practical suggestions, it serves as a tangible guide for anyone planning a European-wide initiative. The book is completed by concrete recommendations to the European Union for promoting and monitoring a trans-European initiative. The book also pays special attention to the use of new media in the citizen participation process.