Live Europe. The importance of education about the European vote – Current affairs

Portugal’s entry into the then European Community (1986) contributed very positively to the process of consolidating the democratic regime and its institutions — the autocratic regime that had ruled for 48 years had ended in 1974 and the country was going through a difficult process of decolonization — and was fundamental to the economic and social development we have seen over the last forty years.

This evolution was possible thanks to the Structural and Cohesion Funds, of which we have always been major beneficiaries. But much was also due to the collective Portuguese commitment to actively participate in the construction of the European project, which indelibly influenced the process of transformation that was felt in politics, diplomacy, the economy and social standards. Of course, integration into the single market and the coordination of economic and budgetary policies stand out, which opened our doors to Europe and the world, resulting in strong socioeconomic development.

Lucas Chambel, President of the Portuguese Association of Young Pharmacists.

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Our lives are highly and positively influenced by European policies and institutions. The European Union plays a fundamental role in several areas, from the economy to the environment, education and human rights, migration and, of course, health. Decisions taken in the European Parliament have direct repercussions on national policies and legislation, shaping the future of Portugal and its citizens.

It is European legislation that introduces strict rules regarding the production, manufacture and marketing of food, medicines and electronic devices, for example. It is thanks to the principle of the single market and free movement in the EU that we are now free to travel, study, work and live throughout Europe, and vice versa, and that we have access to the best technologies and products around the world. These are small details of our lives and daily lives that, without Europe, would be profoundly different.

Experiencing Europe means valuing the evolution of the country and the lives of the Portuguese.

Unfortunately, in the Portuguese political landscape, European elections do not receive the attention they deserve. In recent years, we have seen a worrying trend of declining participation in European elections. Portugal recorded an abstention rate of close to 70%, an evolution contrary to the European trend. These values ​​placed Portugal, in 2019, in the 5th lowest level of participation among the 28 member states and the lowest among those that had joined the EU before 2004.

Ignoring the European elections is, in reality, neglecting a crucial opportunity to influence the course of events and ensure that the country’s interests are represented effectively at European level.

The problem of participation — or lack thereof — is complex and multifactorial. Some of the available scientific evidence seems to point to a few reasons: age, income inequalities and the relationship between citizens and institutions. With regard to age, much has been said about the apparent lack of interest on the part of young people, in fact, a phenomenon common to all developed countries. This population group, despite representing a significant portion of the population, often does not feel the need to actively participate in the democratic process, especially when it comes to the European elections. It is arguable that this apathy is fueled by the lack of adequate civics education in schools and the absence of stimulating political debate in the public sphere. Without a solid understanding of the role of the European Union in everyday life and the consequences of decisions taken at European level, young people can easily feel alienated and disinterested in the electoral process.

Therefore, ignoring the European elections is, in reality, neglecting a crucial opportunity to influence the course of events and to ensure that the country’s interests are represented effectively at European level. It is crucial to recognize the importance of the European elections and the impact they have on the lives of Portuguese citizens.

Promoting participation in European elections is essential to strengthening democracy and ensuring diverse and inclusive political representation. Increasingly, there are projects organized by both political parties and civil society that promote literacy and participation at European level. We, young Portuguese, in particular, have a vital role to play in this process. The truth is that we represent the present and future of the country and have the power to shape policies and decisions that will affect generations to come.

We are part of the first generation that was born and lived their entire lives as Portuguese-European citizens. We have increased responsibilities for your success and future

It is essential that we are educated on the importance of the European vote and empowered to actively participate in the political process. Schools and civil society organizations have a crucial role to play in this regard, by providing opportunities for learning and civic engagement.

Ultimately, the European elections should not be seen as a mere formality, but rather as a crucial moment to exercise our democratic right and shape the future of Portugal and Europe.

We are part of the first generation that was born and lived their entire lives as Portuguese-European citizens. We have increased responsibilities for its success and future, moreover because we benefit as a generation from an open, free Europe, which shares the universal values ​​of solidarity and friendship between peoples and which gives hope for a better tomorrow. Living Europe also means ensuring that we participate in the election of our representatives and in building the future of the European project.

Lucas Chambel, President of the Portuguese Association of Young Pharmacists.

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