The 9th of May is a significant date in European history, marking the anniversary of the 1950 Schuman Declaration, which laid the foundation for the European Coal and Steel Community, a precursor to the European Union as we know it today. This declaration was a crucial first step towards unifying the great powers of Europe in the aftermath of World War II, aiming to promote peace and economic cooperation among nations.
Since the establishment of the European Parliament in 1958, the EU has experienced significant growth both geographically and institutionally. However, in recent years, the European Union has faced challenges such as the rise of right-wing populism, social division, economic crises, and increasing Euroscepticism. These trends have raised concerns about the future of the EU and its ability to effectively engage with its diverse population.
One of the core issues facing the EU is the lack of engagement from the citizens of its member states, particularly during European Parliamentary elections. Voter turnout for EU elections is typically lower than that of national or local elections, as many individuals view EU politics as distant and less relevant to their daily lives. This disconnect has contributed to a sense of apathy and disinterest among European citizens towards the EU’s decision-making processes.
Despite these challenges, there have been some positive developments, such as an increase in engagement among young voters in the 2019 elections compared to previous years. However, many individuals are still unaware of key election dates and lack information about the EU and its functions.
The digital revolution has also transformed the nature of political engagement, with over half of the EU’s youth relying on social media for information. This shift has made young voters more susceptible to digital propaganda, including tactics used by far-right groups to attract support through platforms like TikTok.
The importance of democratic participation is a central theme in the Maastricht Debates, where European party leaders address key issues chosen by the public. This engagement is crucial as the EU faces challenges related to climate change, foreign policy, and democratic governance.
Today’s Guests
Ivana Dragičević is an accomplished journalist, author, and founder of the Europe Future Center. She has produced documentaries in collaboration with the European Parliament and authored books on global inequality and security. Ivana is a prominent figure in the media landscape of the Adria-Balkans Region, serving as Editor-at-large on N1 Television, a CNN affiliate.
André Wilkens is the director of the European Cultural Foundation in Amsterdam and a leading voice on European and international affairs. He advocates for equality, climate action, and digital innovation, with a focus on shaping a more humane digital future. André is also involved in several civil society initiatives and serves on the boards of various organizations.
Michael Zeller is an Assistant Professor specializing in comparative politics at Ludwig-Maximilians-University in Munich. His research focuses on Right-Wing Extremism in Europe, and he is actively engaged in projects aimed at countering violent extremism. Michael is a member of several research networks and policy support groups related to radicalization and security in Europe.
Creative Team
Réka Kinga Papp, Editor-in-chief
Merve Akyel, Art Director
Szilvia Pintér, Producer
Zsófia Gabriella Papp, Digital Producer
Salma Shaka, Writer-Editor
Priyanka Hutschenreiter, Project Assistant
Disclosure
This talk show is produced by Display Europe, a media platform committed to promoting public values and fostering dialogue on pressing European issues. The programme receives co-funding from the Creative Europe Programme and the European Cultural Foundation. The opinions expressed by the authors and speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency.