The EESC has adopted a resolution in which it calls on Europeans to vote in the European elections. The three resolution rapporteurs, EESC members Christa Schweng, Cinzia del Rio and Ioannis Vardakastanis, representing the EESC Employers', Workers' and Civil Society Organisations' Groups respectively, were united in their calls for Europeans to use their democratic right to vote and elect representatives who will stand up for a united, democratic, sustainable and social Europe. In our column "One question to…", we asked each rapporteur what is at stake in this election and why everyone should use their vote this June.
Christa Schweng, former EESC president and member of the EESC Employers' Group
The European elections are the event where Europeans can decide who will lead our European Union over the next five years. This time, they will take place in a dramatically changing geopolitical context, marked by the unjustified war against Ukraine on our doorstep. Countries which were previously enemies are forming new alliances and are becoming hostile to our way of life. The state of democracy is worrying, to say the least, as backsliding of democracies can be observed globally. The rule of law and freedom of the press are in decline, to name just two of the most common indicators. Across Europe, we are witnessing increasing attacks on liberal democracies. In several Member States, core European values have been undermined, civic spaces cut off and media freedoms curtailed.
Disinformation and fake news cause divisions in our society and lead to mistrust and hate.
The EU is founded on the common values of democracy, protection of human rights, freedom of expression, the rule of law, tolerance, justice, non-discrimination, equality, solidarity, and democratic participation. These values should never be taken for granted; they need to be continuously strengthened, defended and protected.
The European elections are an opportunity to show that we care about democracy and about our fundamental values – and this is why it is important that we Europeans make use of our votes.
Cinzia Del Rio, member of EESC Workers' Group
We are asking citizens to go out to vote for Europe, for the European project, for a more integrated and solidary Europe. The European Union is based on values, principles, the rule of law, rights and participation, all of which are not negotiable, because they represent the foundations of our democracy and the key elements of our model of inclusive, sustainable growth. And we need to secure our democratic foundations.
Europe has new challenges to address today:
- it has to cope with a fragmented and conflict-driven geopolitical context with new global economic and political players and competitors;
- it has to support the green, digital and demographic transitions, as well as technological change, innovation, and the development of AI with a human-centred approach, while at the same time involving young people in these processes;
- it has to build a renewed common European industrial policy together with new common financial instruments;
- it has to ensure social investment in order to fully implement the European Pillar of Social Rights, improve social cohesion, create quality jobs and address poverty, inequalities and social exclusion.
No European country can do all this alone. We call upon citizens to use their vote to ensure stronger integration of the European Union, in order to be able to build and engage in durable peace and sustain our economic and social model.
Ioannis Vardakastanis, member of EESC Civil Society Organisations' Group
The upcoming European Parliament elections are immensely important for the future of our Union and our continent as a whole. At stake is the essence of the EU – our unity, democracy, competitiveness, sustainability and social justice. It is crucial that EU citizens exercise their right to vote, as the Parliament directly shapes the EU of tomorrow.
The EU symbolises cooperation and opportunities, ensuring peace, democracy, inclusiveness and prosperity. However, challenges faced by citizens, such as rising living and energy costs, climate change, and conflicts, have resulted in increasing insecurities among Europeans; these challenges require unified pan-European solutions.
Nationalism offers no answers. We need collaboration, solidarity and effective civil dialogue to tackle these issues and maintain our democratic values. The EU must also lead globally, promoting peace, multilateralism and environmental protection. A transition to a digital and green economy is imperative. Inclusivity is key. All citizens must be empowered to participate in shaping our future. As members of the European Economic and Social Committee, we are dedicated to these principles. Your vote is crucial in shaping our Union's future. Let's unite for a democratic, competitive, sustainable and social EU. Your vote matters – use it for a brighter European future!
The text of the resolution can be found on the EESC special web page on European elections.
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