Äänestyskysymys
Should the EU develop more resilience to face current global challenges?
With this 9th round of the European HomeParliaments, we are therefore focussing on the topic of "European resilience" and offering an opportunity to reflect on this: Should the EU develop more resilience to face the current global challenges?
tausta
Dear participants, Welcome to the European HomeParliaments. We are delighted that you are taking part. 2024 is a special year: Europe is electing a new parliament. This election, like 2019, will be a landmark election and will play a huge role for democracy across the European Union. And that is why we are also in demand: climate, wars, migration, shortage of skilled labour, inflation... we are hardly used to positive news any more. Instead, frustration is growing among the population. We are in the midst of a "polycrisis": anxiety and powerlessness are spreading in Europe; many people are disappointed with politics and criticise it. Around 51 per cent of EU citizens are dissatisfied with the state of democracy and over 40 per cent of EU citizens do not trust the EU institutions. A full 64 per cent of people in Eastern Germany distrust the EU, which is the highest percentage in the entire European Union. Europe's democracy is under massive pressure: while authoritarian forces such as Russia and China are putting Europe's liberal and democratic societies to the test from the outside, the EU is struggling internally with growing polarisation, scepticism towards democracy, national egoism, and a feeling of alienation between citizens and politicians. But we can also learn something from crises, draw strengths from them and grow together. With this 9th round of the European HomeParliaments, we are therefore focussing on the topic of "European resilience" and offering an opportunity to reflect on this: Should the EU develop more resilience to face the current global challenges? We would like to invite you to debate and discuss three important questions on European resilience. As in a parliament, you will first be able to discuss the individual questions with each other and then vote on them individually. Together with the results of the numerous other European HomeParliaments taking place simultaneously in various European countries, the results will be incorporated into a comprehensive European overview and then discussed with EU politicians. Enjoy contemplating, discussing and voting. We look forward to your contribution to the future of European democracy.
Osittaisia kysymyksiä
1. Should the EU invest in European defence capabilities so that it can act independently in military conflicts?
Tausta: Not only the war in Ukraine, but also the conflict in the Middle East and many other crises in the world show that peace cannot be taken for granted. A global comparison shows that although the EU states invest considerable money in defence, their defence capability is low in the event of a crisis. Military support from the USA has so far been indispensable for Europe and Ukraine. However, with a view to the presidential elections in America at the end of the year, further support has been called into question and there is a real threat that the defence and military capabilities of a free Europe are no longer guaranteed, and thus the international order and all European states are not fully secure.
Puolesta
The likelihood that the USA will not be willing to stand up for European countries militarily and will gradually dismantle its military defence umbrella has increased significantly.
An independent military capacity is the prerequisite for the EU to be perceived as a global and robust player on an equal footing and not to be blackmailed by autocrats.
The commitment of the member states to the EU would increase, which contributes to strengthening the European identity and community. The likelihood of peace within Europe also increases.
Vastaan
The hitherto successful division of roles between the EU (soft power) and NATO (hard power) will be undermined if the EU takes on NATO-like tasks, which could lead to conflicts in responsibilities and with international partners
The need for armament increases the temptation to resolve conflicts prematurely with armed force and weakens efforts to secure peace by non-military means.
The additional expenditure required for the military will damage the social fabric of the member states. Massive increases in expenditure are possible, leading to additional debt.
Lisäyksiä kokouksista
This could even lead to a future growth in the economy, and technical evolution.
This would lead to duplication of effort and costs, considering what already present with NATO.
2. Should a compulsory service (e.g. defence, social, environmental) be introduced in the EU that can be performed in all Member States?
Tausta: For many young people, completing a voluntary year, whether social or ecological, or a voluntary service programme, is an important part of their lives, e.g. to gain important experience for the rest of their lives after leaving school. Many also want to make an important contribution to society abroad and develop their personality step by step. However, this service is not yet compulsory. Many graduates go straight to college or do an apprenticeship after graduating, and the requirements and conditions also vary within the EU. Some countries have state-sponsored programmes, while others are run by non-profit organisations or NGOs.
Puolesta
Social cohesion and European identity would be strengthened by young people getting to know other EU countries and meeting Europeans from different social classes and nationalities.
Young people can be supported in their personal development while also learning how to get become civically engaged. They also gain important experience for their professional orientation.
Compulsory service can be completed in many areas and go beyond the equivalent of a social voluntary service. Individual skills and wishes can be considered and taken into account.
Vastaan
An administrative apparatus still to be built up, the financial and organisational costs for the EU (infrastructure, salaries, organisation, national services, etc.) increase the risk of additional bureaucracy and additional costs.
Personal freedom in individual life planning is restricted. In addition, professional training is likely to be delayed.
Such a service, including experience abroad, could lead young, motivated and capable people being shown the advantages of other EU member states, which could result in migration to "more attractive" EU states.
Lisäyksiä kokouksista
This initial forcing pressure may open new worlds to people who otherwise would never enjoy such an experience.
Too much emphasis on forcing this to people may bring to counter reactions, against freedom principles?
3. Should the EU accelerate the green transition in the energy, mobility, and agricultural sectors?
Tausta: Climate and environmental protection are two much discussed and highly controversial topics that have attracted further attention, not least due to the many demonstrations and protests. With the Green Deal, Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has presented an ambitious proposal for more climate and environmental protection. But is it enough? Despite the ambitious targets within the deal, it is important to note that we are below the global target of a 1.5 degree rise in temperature. The "green transformation" aims to reshape the economy, society, and the environment sustainably to tackle environmental challenges and create a future for everyone. This transformation aims to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, minimise the consumption of natural resources, reduce pollution and combat climate change. The goals of the green transformation are, for example, energy transition with the promotion of renewable energies, a sustainable economy, environmental protection and social justice. The green transformation is therefore a multidimensional process that requires political decisions as well as technological innovations, changes in consumer behaviour and cooperation at an international level. It is an integral part of the endeavour to achieve sustainable development and tackle the challenges of climate change and environmental degradation.
Puolesta
The worsening climate crisis requires swift and effective action to limit its consequences.
Europe has contributed significantly to climate change. Only if a prosperous Europe successfully leads the way will other countries follow suit.
The green transformation is based on innovation and in this way secures future competitiveness and thus prosperity and jobs in the EU.
Vastaan
The effectiveness of EU measures on climate development is limited if other major "polluter" states do not follow suit.
The transformation is associated with very high costs and rising debt, possibly also with a loss of prosperity for the population.
Citizens and industry are already under extreme pressure because of the coronavirus crisis. Many people and groups would not support a further intensification of the requirements.
Vaikutelmia talon parlamenteista
