Ei-iE

Education International
Education International

Winds of change for Europe: 25 May 2014 vote for Europe

published 20 May 2014 updated 22 May 2014

ETUCE is calling on all its affiliates to vote for candidates that can change the course of austerity policies in Europe, to vote for a social and democratic Europe.

Against the background of the persistent effects of the worst financial and economic crisis, without sweeping the dirt under the carpet, or hiding the difficulties that the European Union is facing, ETUCE believes that it is now the time for European citizens to have their say on the Europe they want.

ETUCE joins the call of ETUC to vote for a social Europe: a progressive and inclusive Europe that works for the rights of its people. Only through a democratic legitimacy these objectives can be achieved.

Most notably, the European core values themselves are at stake on 25 May, due to the rise of nationalistic movements raising their voice to opt-out from the European Union. Taking part in the European elections means to revive the highest aims of the European Union since its creation, embedded in the Treaties. It means standing for “ the promotion of a high level of employment, the guarantee of adequate social protection, the fight against social exclusion, and a high level of education, training and protection of human health” (Article 9 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union - TFEU).

The European Parliament elections will open the way for a series of events having relevant impact on the future of Europe and of its citizens. After the first plenary assembly in July, the new Members of the European Parliament will be called to elect the new President of the European Commission (14-17/07/2014). The new European Commission will take office from autumn this year (1/11/2014).

Have a strong say, go to vote.