As we approach the summer of 2024, an important event looms on the horizon for the citizens of the European Union: the European Parliament elections, scheduled to take place from 6th to 9th June. This democratic process will determine the representatives who will play a critical role in shaping the policies and future direction of the EU.
The European Parliament elections span four days, offering a window for eligible voters across the 27 EU member states to cast their ballots. It’s a vital opportunity for over 447 million EU citizens to influence the decisions that will impact their daily lives and the future of the continent.
The European Parliament is one of the key legislative bodies of the EU, holding significant power in various areas. It co-decides on EU laws alongside the Council of the European Union, shares authority over the EU budget, ensuring financial resources are allocated effectively, and monitors and reviews other EU institutions and policies to maintain transparency and accountability. This makes the role of MEPs (Members of the European Parliament) crucial in shaping policies on climate change, economic strategies, social rights, and digital transformation.
Voting in the EU Parliament elections is a powerful way to influence decisions on crucial issues like climate change and environmental protection, ensuring sustainable development and addressing the climate crisis. It also impacts economic policies, shaping strategies including trade agreements and financial regulations, protects social rights by promoting gender equality and addressing social inequalities, and steers policies on digital innovation, data privacy, and technology use.
To prepare for the upcoming elections, ensure you are registered to vote according to your country’s regulations. Research the parties and candidates running in your constituency to make an informed choice. Stay informed about key issues and the positions of different parties, and plan your vote by determining when and where you will cast your ballot, considering the election dates span four days.
The upcoming EU Parliament elections are a critical moment for all EU citizens to make their voices heard. Your participation will help shape the future of Europe, influencing policies that affect daily life and the broader global stage. Mark your calendar, get informed, and exercise your democratic right this June!
Recently, we held an event near the Theater Erfurt where we aimed to attract an audience and had a performance on the importance of voting. In collaboration with @studio.box_theatererfurt, we brought the theme of migrant (barriers to) participation in the European and Local Elections this year to their Europe Week exhibition. Our performance artists Kelvin Akpaloo, Xavi Vila, and Ulyana Duve used creative arts to highlight the estimated 14% of people who cannot vote in these elections due to citizenship.
For more information, visit the official European Parliament website or your national election authority’s site.
Stay tuned for more updates and insights as we approach this pivotal event.
This project is co-funded by the European Union through the Erasmus+ program.
