The debate follows discussions with European Commissioners held in all the countries of the EU since September 2012. Attended by over 15 000 people, these have enabled citizens to air their views on Europe's future economic and political development ahead of the European elections in May.
3 participants from each of these discussions will take part in debates throughout the day in Brussels. Topics will include
- citizens’ rights
- overcoming the crisis
- climate change
- consumer concerns that affect people's everyday lives.
The final debate will bring everyone together with European Commission President José Manuel Barroso from 16.00 to 17.00 CET. You can watch the event live via webstream and join in on social media.
2013 was the European Year of Citizens, which sought to familiarise people with their rights as EU citizens. Dialogues were held all over Europe, enabling EU citizens to express their hopes and aspirations for the future and their views on the direction the EU should take. These have continued into 2014. In a poll conducted during the debates, 51% thought Europe would emerge stronger from the crisis, while 74% wanted closer political union. 88% favoured holding more debates.
The views expressed by citizens will help to guide plans for future reform of the EU. In an election year, it is particularly important for citizens to have a direct say in the debate.
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