In this edition of the content, the focus is on the rise in violent attacks against politicians as well as the upcoming European Parliament elections in June. The panel includes Els Bruggeman, Roderick Kefferpütz, and Ailbhe Finn, who discuss the topics that could motivate people to vote in the elections. Bruggeman highlights the cost of living, inflation, energy prices, wars, and climate change as key issues, while Finn emphasizes the need for a balanced discussion on migration and housing for migrants and refugees. The relationship between people and Brussels is described as ‘complicated’, with high expectations for Europe but a love/hate dynamic.
Bruggeman points out that the cost of living and inflation are the top concerns for voters, along with energy prices, wars, and climate change. She notes that people have high expectations for Europe but also harbor a sense of skepticism or mistrust. Finn echoes this sentiment by calling for an honest discussion about migration and housing, emphasizing that blaming migrants for housing shortages is unfair. The panelists hope that these issues will be addressed in a meaningful way in the lead-up to the elections, in order to engage voters and encourage participation.
The discussion also delves into the alarming increase in violent attacks against politicians, with panelists expressing concern about the safety and security of elected officials. The rise in violence is seen as a troubling trend that threatens the democratic process and the ability of politicians to carry out their duties without fear of harm. The panelists call for measures to protect politicians and ensure that they can work effectively in service of their constituents, without being targeted by violence or intimidation.
Overall, the panel emphasizes the importance of addressing key issues such as the cost of living, inflation, energy prices, wars, climate change, migration, and housing in order to engage voters and encourage participation in the upcoming European Parliament elections. The relationship between people and Brussels is described as complex, with a mix of high expectations and skepticism. The rise in violence against politicians is also a cause for concern, highlighting the need for measures to protect elected officials and safeguard the democratic process.
As the elections approach, the panelists stress the need for a balanced and honest discussion on these important issues, in order to build trust and engagement among voters. By addressing concerns about the cost of living, inflation, energy prices, wars, climate change, migration, and housing, politicians can demonstrate their commitment to serving the interests of the public and addressing pressing challenges facing Europe. Ultimately, the panelists hope that these discussions will lead to greater voter turnout and a stronger mandate for the European Parliament to address these critical issues in the coming term.
