"If there is inequality in the way representatives are elected, then there will always be inequality in the population they represent."
The current European electoral system - a system based on the differing rules of 27 separate countries - means the impact of your vote and your political involvement as a European depends on which country you were born or live in. An 18 year-old in Austria or France for example can run in an election, but their Italian neighbour must wait another 7 years before they are even eligible. Additionally if you're a woman, minority or person with disabilities then you are underrepresented in European politics and face increased social and cultural barriers when engaging politically. This disparity only scratches the surface of why Europe’s patchwork, inefficient model for electing European representatives needs to change! With a more balanced and equal electoral system, we can achieve this.
Europe’s elections need to evolve to work for the 21st century; we need a modern system that creates solutions to our modern problems. A system that is fairer, more accessible and more European. We need a single European vote for parliament - held on a public voting holiday and with distance voting options - and with equal election rules that apply to all Europeans.
We are all voting for the same thing - a Member of European Parliament - why do we do it with different rules, on different days and with different standards on who can run for office depending on the country?