Because, fully implemented, and with a US style IR the JAR licenses could be a tremendous thing. Total freedom to work and fly anywhere in the world without hassle, pretty much. Renewable anywhere etc. That's something to strive for.
Amen to that (what a wonderful world that would be) but failing this the IMC should remain!
As for the Pilot Magazine article it seems that what was argued there was that while a European rating that allowed 'en route' IFR would be a step forward, a rating that did not emphasise the significant details (and skills) of an instrument approach and landing could be a license to kill oneself (or did I miss the point)?