Welcome to the European Union (EU), the world’s first transnational and participatory democracy

As an EU citizen, you have the constitutional right to influence the rules that apply to almost 450 million people across an area of more than 4 million km² in 27 countries. You may well say: that sounds great, but HOW can I make my voice heard in practice? This electronic passport produced by the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) answers this question. This is your guide to active citizenship in the EU.

Throughout the text, you will be assisted and guided in making your voice heard by asking some basic questions first. Is it a genuinely European matter you want to address – or might it be advisable to start at the local level instead? And if you're going European with your idea, what is the most meaningful and successful way to make it happen? An email to your Member of the European Parliament may be enough – or maybe you should petition the European Parliament directly? Why not join a civil society organisation or even a political party and run for office yourself? Or how about organising and supporting a European Citizens' Initiative to set the agenda for legislation?

This guide is designed to assist you with timing (when should you become active?), teams (whom should you join forces with?) and tools (which available participatory instrument should you use?) when it comes to active citizenship and participatory democracy in the European Union.

Moreover, this electronic version offers plenty of additional interactive elements: quick links, quizzes and infographics to illustrate the information and give you an insight into your citizen’s rights at a glance.

Are you ready to act for Europe? Ready, set, click!