*THREAD* Some thoughts on democracy & participation in the EU, looking at the responsibilities of Vĕra Jourová (VP "Values & Transparency") & Dubravka Suica (VP "Democracy & Demography") #vdLTeam /1
Suica ends up with a relatively vague and small portfolio. She won't be responsible for "Democracy" despite having this in her job title. Spitzenkandidaten reform and transnational lists end up in Jourová's portfolio, Suica will be responsible for the Conference organisation. /2
Some thoughts on the analysis of populism found in the letter to Suica: Democratic structures are not responsible for populism for #vdL, but demographic change is. For me, this is not the best analysis to start with. /3
Two issues in particular: 1) Does #vdL mean that diversity & multiculturalism is the root cause for populism? Or is this a reference to age? 2) If demography is solely to blame for populism, this could mean no big structural changes in democratic processes or institutions. /4
This might potentially mean #vdL will prefer "nice to have" ad hoc projects more focused on positive PR for the EU rather than actual democratic change in the EU, such as an institutionalisation of deliberative formats. /5
We will see how the experience with the citizens consultations will play into the planned "Conference for the Future of Europe". Recommendations here from fellow EPC colleagues: epc.eu/pub_details.ph… /6
Next to #Spitzenkandidaten & transnat. lists, will be interesting to follow how Jourová will coordinate the "European Democracy Action Plan" to fight electoral interference, put through amendments to change the electoral law and improve the European Citizens' Initiative. /7
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