In our busy daily lives, we don’t even think about the privilege of growing up in a peaceful society built on the foundations established by the European Union—values like human rights, a single market, and freedom of travel. These are the favorable conditions of our society today. At this age, the flame still burns in me to participate in the youth sector, to protest against wars thousands of kilometers away. That’s why, while reading, I was very interested to find out which institutions of peace support democratic society and build human rights values.
“The European Parliament is formed by you—the citizens of Europe…” This is how Antonio Tajani, the President of the European Union in 2017, begins the Short Guide to the European Parliament—The Voice of Citizens in Europe. Since Tajani states that we are a democracy and the constituent part of the European Parliament, do we know how it functions and what role it plays? Just as the European Commission is the executive body, we should know that the European Parliament differs in that it is the only institution whose members are directly elected and represent the citizens. The body closest to us deserves to be known inside and out. That’s why I read this short guide on the main powers of the European Parliament. In addition to legislation, budget, and control, the Parliament advocates for freedom and democracy.
It participates in legislation by expressing a position on issues such as freedom of travel, food safety, and the environment.
As for the budget, the principle, “whoever allocates the funds sets the priorities of the state,” makes the EP one of the most influential bodies in this area.
But certainly one of the most important functions of the institution, after representing citizens before the EU, is exercising control over the Union for the proper use of allocated funds.
How Does it Work?
Each country has representatives distributed by parliamentary groups (political parties, not national delegations). Germany has the most representatives—96—and the Christian Democratic party is the most numerous. The guide is accompanied by a short manual of the member states and their capitals, along with a map that reminds one of the unity with the rest. It’s time for you to research how many representatives your country has in the European Parliament. If all this sounds good in theory, the EP offers many options for physical visits, tours, and simulations to experience the European institutions in Brussels or Strasbourg.
Why Did I Read the Guide?
Because awareness is the first step toward my participation in democratic society.
Why Should You, as Young People, Read It?
Because we are the next European Parliament.