European Citizens' Forum in Strasbourg

The European Union has recently been through a period of flux, following the failure of the ratification of the European Constitution and the efforts of EU leaders to agree a new Reform Treaty. One of the messages that has come across clearly during this period is that the European Union has lost touch with its citizens. Opinion polls show that citizens trust in the European institutions is declining and that few understand the benefits that European integration has brought to them.

The aim of the AER European Citizens Forums is to engage citizens and regional politicians in a debate with representatives of the European Union on the future of Europe. The forums operate as a two-way process, informing citizens about the European Union concrete work, and listening to people expectations about what should be done in the future. The aim of the meetings is not to spread propaganda, but rather to give citizens the opportunity to ask their representatives questions that will help them to gain a better understanding of why the EU matters for their region.The Forums are co-financed by the European Union within the programme Europe for Citizens 2007-2013.

In 2007, the AER intends to hold four European citizens forums in: West Sussex (UK), Alsace (F), Silesia (PL) and Iasi (RO). In 2008, a further 4 European Citizens forums will be organised.

In 21st November the Assembly of European Regions with students of the Institute of the Political Sciences and Alsace Regional Council organises the European Citizens’ Forum in Strasbourg. The main topic of the meeting is Europe and its neighbours. During the Forum students will discuss with experts the case of European Neighbourhood Policy.

For further information, please visit: Future of Europe