After weeks of hectic campaigning, D-Day has almost arrived. Sunday June 9, the French are called to the polls to elect the 81 French European deputies who will sit for five years in the Strasbourg Parliament. In total, citizens of the 27 member countries will elect 720 representatives, by proportional representation, to modify and vote on laws.
What are the candidates’ proposals?
The European campaign highlighted the many differences between the parties. Should we move towards a powerful Europe or return to a Europe of nations? Should the European Union expand eastwards and accept Ukraine as a member?
What compromise between environmental regulations and the defense of farmers? Ecology, free trade, foreign policy or even immigration… Discover the candidates’ main proposals here.
These rules which change depending on the country
The 27 member countries may vote for the same assembly, but the rules are sometimes very different. Some states allow voting by mail or online. Others have made voting compulsory.
Unlike France, Ireland allows its voters to create their own lists from candidates from several parties. Read here the rules established by each country.
The EU’s “top jobs”, this other battle going on behind the scenes
After each European election, negotiations are underway between countries to appoint the highest positions in the EU. Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission since 2019, is a candidate for re-election but is put in danger within her own party.
The socialists would like someone from their ranks to replace the Belgian Charles Michel, president of the European Council. And who will inherit the coveted Foreign Affairs portfolio? Update here on the names circulating in Brussels.
38 candidate lists: why are there so many?
Only eight top candidates were at the heart of this campaign. However, the French will have the choice between 38 lists this Sunday. An abundance linked to the very flexible criteria for being a candidate in the European ballot.
From the Animalist Party to the Pirate Party, via the “Free Palestine” committee or François Asselineau’s “Frexit”, find out here why there will be so many options in your polling station.
Why is the vote taking place over four days?
In India, the parliamentary elections lasted six weeks. The Europeans only last four days. The Netherlands kicked off on Thursday June 6, followed by Ireland and the Czech Republic. But most countries, including France, will make their choice on Sunday June 9. National traditions, fight against abstention… L’Express returns here to the reasons behind this strange organization.