Agreement on Direct Elections to the European Parliament

Agreement on Direct Elections to the European Parliament: What You Need to Know

In July 1976, the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union reached an agreement on the direct elections to the European Parliament. This was a historic moment for the European Union, as it marked a shift from an intergovernmental organization to a democratic one.

Direct elections meant that citizens across the Member States could vote for their representatives in the European Parliament. Prior to this, the members were nominated by their respective governments and approved by the Parliament. Direct elections signaled a move towards a more democratic and transparent system.

The agreement included provisions for the election of members of the European Parliament, the voting rights of citizens, the procedure for the elections, and the formation of political groups within the Parliament. It also specified the roles and responsibilities of the Parliament, Council, and Commission, and their interactions.

The first direct elections were held in June 1979, with over 180 million citizens across the nine Member States participating. Since then, the number of Member States has increased to 27, and the Parliament now has 705 members.

Direct elections have been critical in increasing the legitimacy of the European Parliament and giving citizens a voice in the decision-making process. Through their elected representatives, citizens can influence the policies and laws that affect their daily lives.

Moreover, the Parliament has become an important forum for debating and shaping policies that are relevant to the citizens of the EU. It has the power to legislate on a range of issues, including consumer protection, environmental protection, and workers` rights. It also shares the responsibility for the EU`s budget and has oversight over the Commission.

The agreement on direct elections to the European Parliament was a crucial step towards making the EU more democratic and accountable. It has given citizens a say in the political process and ensured that their voices are heard at the highest level of decision-making.

In conclusion, direct elections to the European Parliament have been a significant development in the EU`s history. They have increased the legitimacy of the Parliament and given citizens a greater role in the decision-making process. As the EU continues to evolve, it is essential to maintain and strengthen the democratic foundations of the Union.