Citizens Initiatives

Citizens initiatives is a kind of initiative where a public institution makes it possible for citizens to propose and submit legislative proposals, as well as the case of voting initiatives in some municipalities. In the case of the European Union there is also the possibility of proposing legislative initiatives to the European Parliament.

European Citizens Initiative

As we have learnt in the other modules, the Treaty of Lisbon brought a new tool to the EU citizens, allowing them to participate in the shaping of EU policies - the European Citizens Initiative. This is an individual and collective right that is set by law.

Before we explain a short step by step guideline, watch this video to get a better idea of what the European Citizens´ Initiative is:

In the page of the European Citizens Initiative you can:

• propose a new initiative to be discussed in the European Parliament or,

• subscribe current initiatives by simply voting.

You just have to go to https://citizens-initiative.europa.eu and create or vote in one initiative.

Have You Say

Another otion is the possibility of giving your opinion on the future policies of the European Commission.

The “have your say” portal is a website in which you can comment on EU policy making. The European Commission publishes proposals for new policies to get your consultation. You have the chance to state your opinion, give feedback or suggest changes to the policy throughout its making process. 

Also, you can suggest ways to improve an existing EU law on which the Commission would like your opinion, in order to make it more efficient and effective. You can let the Commission know how the law is affecting your daily life. The Commission will take your ideas into account in making policies more concrete. 

This is a way to influence European politics and make them more adjusted to real needs of EU citizens. To do so you need to register or login here: https://ec.europa.eu/info/law/better-regulation/have-your-say_en

Petition the European Parliament

One of your fundamental rights as a European Citizen is to submit a petition to the European Parliament. This is a way for you to communicate and express your wishes. The right is enshrined in the Treaty and in the Charter of Fundamental Rights. 

If you want to submit a petition or support an already existing one you can check the following website

https://www.europarl.europa.eu/petitions/en/home