I think the idea of a co-operative empire is very good. However, despite being a strong europhile I think it has some way to go to demonstrate its committment to these goals.

Organisationally it is secretive and obviously careless with the cash. It is far too easily bent to the will of large corporate interests and strong national vetoes.

Each of these things may seem mild or even innocuous taken separately, but together you really shouldn't be surprised if it seems democratically unaccountable and distant, which only breeds  suspicion and, ultimately, resistance.

keep to the Fen Causeway