There are many ways that you, the citizen, can take part in a more active way in the life of the European Union. You can contribute your views as an individual or as part of a group, you can take part in discussions online and you can enter a host of EU-sponsored competitions and try to win the prizes on offer.
Making your Voice Heard
Your Voice in Europe is the European Commission’s "single access point" to a wide variety of consultations, discussions and other channels which enable you to play an active role in the European policy-making process.
Click here to find out which public consultations are currently open and feel free to make a contribution.
Or, go to the Discussions page and participate in the many conversations going on at any time. Visit one of the many blogs within the europa.eu website and make your comments. Or, join us on the social media networks where the Commission is developing an ever-increasing presence.
Don't forget also that you can communicate with us here at the Representation in Nicosia through social media. Find us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.
The European Citizens' Initiative
The ECI is a new form of public participation in European policy shaping introduced by the Lisbon Treaty. The ECI will allow 1 million citizens from at least one quarter of the EU Member States to invite the European Commission to bring forward proposals for legislation in areas where the Commission has the power to do so. The organizers of a Citizens' Initiative, a citizens' committee composed of at least 7 EU citizens who are resident in at least 7 different Member States, will have 1 year to collect the necessary statements of support. The number of statements of support has to be certified by the competent authorities in the Member States. The Commission will then have 3 months to examine the initiative and decide how to act on it.
In accordance with the Regulation, it will only be possible to launch the first European Citizens' Initiatives from 1 April 2012.
Click here for more information on the Citizens' Initiative.
Prizes and competitions
Budding young scientist? Inspired inventor? Human rights journalist? Talented screenwriter or photographer? The EU recognizes outstanding achievements in all these fields and more. Click here to find out more about the EU’s regular competitions and how to enter.
