ELISABETTA M.

THE EUROPEAN UNION: DEMOCRACY AS A VALUE

I’ve been listening and reading about the European Union since I was a child. Born in 1950, the EU is a unique association between 27 countries, each having their own culture, language and traditions and sharing the same common values, first of all Democracy.

The Council of Europe sustains and supports Democracy: ensuring human rights and dignity, improving the functioning of democratic institutions and also strengthening them. I believe that all these resources are essential in promoting respect for diversity in European societies.

Despite Democracy is not always respected by everyone, it grants the possibility to travel around the Member States without borders using only the Identity Card, having a unique coin, calls in free roaming, study trip, exchanges to improve a language or attending schools that recognize qualifications.

There are many inspiring qualities of Democracy in the EU, even though on the other hand there are also some negative aspects : political parties can bring people who are unable to govern; alternatively , citizens may feel neither represented nor protected.

In conclusion, from my point of view we live in an extraordinary Community , where thanks to Democracy, Peace reigns.

We are part of the world’s largest economy and we also have benefits that make a difference every day.