The European Constitution was a proposed treaty intended to create a consolidated framework for the governance of the European Union. It aimed to simplify existing treaties and enhance the decision-making process within the EU. The Constitution included provisions for a more democratic and transparent system, as well as a charter of fundamental rights. However, the European Constitution faced significant opposition and was ultimately rejected in referendums in France and the Netherlands in 2005. Following this, the EU leaders opted for the Lisbon Treaty, which incorporated many of the Constitution's ideas but in a different format, allowing for continued integration without a formal constitution.