- In the recently concluded European Union elections, the victor European’s People Party faces tough challenge from the smaller parties that have registered unexpected wins who are collectively critical about the purpose and objective of the EU itself.
- EU, which was formed post-war with the idea of becoming an economically integrated, politically unified and a peaceful continent, now is in requirement of fresh objectives and vision.
- Even more in view of the global financial and economic crisis and the banking and credit crunch in Europe, and the outright rejection of the European Constitution in the referendum held in its two major member states – France and Netherlands.
- EU detractors have time and again raked up the fears over migrant influx ever since EU’s expansion into the eight countries of the former Eastern Europe.
- In France, the mainstream parties suffered defeat and the Front National has amassed the largest vote share.
- The anti-immigrant and EU-skeptic UK Independence party has also defeated the ruling Conservative Party and the opposition Labour Party.
- Same trend has been observed in lesser magnitudes in Greece and Germany.
- The question remains whether these parties can now put aside petty differences relating to nationalism and sectarian beliefs to build up sufficient numbers (at least 25 seats from seven different states) that will project them as one cohesive group in the Parliament.
- Mainstream parties are aware of the value of pursuing employment and growth friendly policies, and the impact of deviating from this path.
- This holds the key to removing the democratic deficit of EU institutions and directly influences voter participation.
- Read at:http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-opinion/invigorate-the-european-project/article6055200.ece
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