The EU Elections – Here’s what you need to know
Importance of Voting in European Elections 2024
From June 6 to 9, 2024, millions of Europeans will vote in the European elections, a critical event shaping the EU's future. Voting allows citizens to influence laws on environmental policies, security, migration, social policies, and the economy, impacting everyone from large nations to small communities. The elections will drive digital innovation, aligned with the UN SDGs, fostering sustainable growth and justice. They address global challenges like climate change and equality, empowering citizens to ensure the EU leads in sustainability and digital inclusion. High voter turnout strengthens democratic institutions, reflecting diverse views and protecting European interests.
Key topics
Economic Policies and Recovery
- Post-Pandemic Recovery: Strategies for economic recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic, including the allocation of EU Recovery Plan funds.
- Fiscal Policies: Debates over fiscal rules, budget deficits, and public debt management.
Climate Change and Environmental Policies
- Green Deal: Implementing the European Green Deal to achieve climate neutrality by 2050.
- Climate Legislation: Regulations on carbon emissions and the transition to a green economy.
Migration and Asylum Policies
- Border Security: Strengthening external borders and managing migration flows.
- Asylum Procedures: Reforming the Common European Asylum System (CEAS) and ensuring fair distribution of asylum seekers among member states.
Rule of Law and Democratic Values
- Judicial Independence: Ensuring the independence of the judiciary and combating corruption.
- Media Freedom: Protecting freedom of the press and combating misinformation.
Digital Transformation
- Data Protection: Ensuring robust data privacy and security regulations.
- Cybersecurity: Enhancing measures to protect against digital threats.
Foreign Policy and Defense
- EU’s Global Role: Strengthening the EU's role in global affairs, including relations with major powers like the US, China, and Russia.
- Defense Cooperation: Advancing the EU's defense capabilities and cooperation through initiatives like PESCO (Permanent Structured Cooperation).
Public Health
- Health Systems: Strengthening healthcare systems and coordination among member states.
- Pandemic Preparedness: Improving readiness for future health crises.
Education and Youth
- Erasmus+: Expanding opportunities for education, training, and youth exchange programs.
- Youth Employment: Addressing youth unemployment and promoting skills development.
Who should I vote for?
WSA isn't here to tell you who to vote for, but to stress the importance of participation. Your vote should reflect your values and country of residence. To understand more about your country's representatives and how they align with your values, Euandi offers a helpful quiz.
How do I vote?
For detailed information on how to participate in the EU elections based on your country of residence, click the link below.