EU citizenship consultation 2015

Common values, rights and

democratic participation

Justice and
Consumers
2 3
Contents
Executive Summary 5
1. Profile of respondents 13
2. EU citizens and their right to free movement within the EU 21
3. EU citizenship: Citizens as political actors and democracy 43
4. Citizens views on the promotion of EU common values 59
Vra Jourov
Member of the European Commission
Commissioner for Justice, Consumers and Gender Equality
The voice of
European citizens is heard
What it means to be a European citizen is best reflected in the rights that we gain through EU
citizenship. Without replacing national citizenship, this status gives us additional rights, which most
Europeans use on a daily basis. Furthermore, our Union citizenship is about democracy and our
common values. In challenging times, it is even more important for citizens to have their voice heard
on citizenship rights.
In 2015, we invited citizens all over Europe to tell us about their experiences and views on their Union
citizenship rights. We asked them to share their opinion on our common values, rights and democratic
participation, as well as to tell us how things can be improved. Over two thousand citizens and
organisations replied from all European countries, most of which were young people.
I am delighted to present the key findings of this consultation. This important input will feed into the
Union Citizenship Report 2016.
4 5

Executive Summary
At the end of 2015, the Commission invited citizens all over Europe to share their experiences on EU
citizenship rights including democratic participation and EU common values and to express their
expectations for the future.

EU citizenship gives every national of an EU country specific rights under EU law, including:
The right to move and reside freely within the EU, subject to conditions;
The right not to be discriminated against on the grounds of their nationality;
The right to vote and stand as a candidate in municipal and European Parliament elections
wherever they live in the EU;
The right to be assisted by another EU countrys embassy or consulate outside the EU, if their own
country is not represented, under the same conditions as the citizens of that country;
The right to petition the European Parliament and complain to the European Ombudsman; and
contact the EU Institutions;
The right to organise or support, together with other EU citizens, a citizens initiative to call for new
EU legislation.

This report summarises what people and organisations across the EU told the European Commission
in the public consultation on EU citizenship, which was held from 14 September to 7 December 2015.
Its main objective is to give feedback to citizens and organisations as to the overall results of the
public consultation1.

In addition to the public consultation, the European Commission launched in autumn 2015 two
Eurobarometer surveys to investigate the views of EU citizens on a range of questions relating to EU
citizenship rights in general and to electoral rights more specifically. The Commission also organised and
took part in conferences, workshops and meetings on EU citizenship rights. The key findings and trends
identified in these exercises will inform the Commissions policy work on EU citizenship rights.

The main facts and figures about the public consultation are as follows.

1
From a methodological point of view, it is important to note that the sample of respondents to this consultation is
not statistically representative of the EU population.
2
Flash EB 430
3
Flash EB 431
6 7

Profile of respondents
Italians, Germans, Greeks and British made up the largest number of responses to the consultation.

Map 1: Distribution of respondents by nationality

The public consultation received a total of 2170 responses and consisted of two aspects. Firstly, an
online survey (to which 2163 responses were received) and secondly, a dedicated email account Key
which received seven submissions in the form of position papers. Of the 2163 responses to the online > 10%
survey 2107 (97%) were from individual citizens and 56 (3%) were from organisations.
6% to < 10%
Respondents reflected a broad mix of EU nationalities, age and gender. Young people were particularly
2% to < 6%
active in responding to the public consultation. The majority of those completing the survey (56%)
were under the age of 40. 31% of the respondents were aged 18-30 (by far the biggest group 1% to < 2%
of respondents), followed by those aged 31-40 (25%). The balance between female and male
respondents was respectively 47% and 53%. < 1%

In terms of nationality, all EU countries were represented in the survey. Most active were the Italians
(14%), closely followed by British, German and Greek nationals (all 11%). When looking at responses
by country of residence, respondents residing in Belgium and Italy were the most active. When
compared with the size of each countrys population, nationals from Malta, Greece and Luxembourg
were the biggest groups (see maps 1 to 3).
8 9
European citizens moving
within the EU
Nearly all of the respondents (98%) had made use of their right to move freely in the EU at least
once in their lifetime. More than four in five respondents who had travelled to another EU country
did so more than once per year. For the vast majority of respondents the main reason for travelling
to another EU country was for holiday (94%), work-related reasons (66%) and visiting family or
friends (58%).
More than half of the respondents were living or had lived in an EU country other than their own for at
least three months (60%). Almost four out of 10 respondents (39%) were living in another EU country
at the time of the consultation. The majority of those living or having lived in another EU country
had done so for reasons of work (66%) or education and volunteering (64%). Fewer respondents had
done so for family reasons, i.e. to join or accompany their partner/spouse, children, parents or other
family members (25%). Most young people (18-30) indicated that they lived abroad for educational
reasons (58%).
Slightly more than one third of those who lived or had lived in another EU country had experienced
some difficulty after having moved (36%). These difficulties were mostly related to lengthy or unclear
administrative procedures (69%) and/or to the lack of sufficient information on or awareness of their
rights as EU citizens (51%).
The overwhelming majority (82%) of respondents indicated that they would like to have online
information on practical issues in the country in which they live (e.g. how to register as a resident,
register on the electoral roll, set up a business, have qualifications recognised, retire etc.). Almost
three out of four respondents (73%) said that e-services on administrative formalities (e.g. filling
out administrative forms online) would be most useful when planning a move to another EU country.
Respondents expressed positive views about free movement. A large majority were of the opinion that
free movement within the EU promotes cultural diversity (81%) and fosters mutual understanding
(77%). They also believed that moving to another EU country helps to create an EU identity (70%) and
brings economic growth (61%). Only 16% expressed the view that free movement creates problems,
with those expressing this view tending to refer especially to practical reasons.
European citizens and
participation in EU democratic life
EU citizens who are living in another EU country have the choice between voting and standing as
candidates in the European Parliament elections in the country where they live or in their country
of origin. Most of the respondents (82%) indicated that they had voted in their country of origin
while only one out of four had made use of the possibility to vote in the country in which they were
living (22%).
EU citizens who are living in another EU country have the right to vote or stand as candidates
in the local elections in the country where they live. Slightly less than a third of respondents
indicated that they had voted or stood as candidates for municipal elections while living in another
EU country (30%).
One in five respondents (21%) stated that they had difficulties exercising their right to vote in European
and/or local elections while living in another EU country. Around half of them indicated that these
difficulties related to the administrative burden of registering on the electoral roll (51%) or to insufficient
or unclear information on how to vote (47%).
When asked how citizens participation in European elections could be improved, more than four out of
five of the respondents (81%), in particular young people (84%) said the relevance of EU policies for
citizens daily lives should be better explained. Almost two out of three (65%) said more information on
the programmes and objectives of candidates and parties in the European Parliament would be useful to
increase participation. Almost one out of three respondents (32%) thought that voting should be made
more accessible in practice to all, including people with disabilities and older people.
Regarding specific practices which could make it easier for EU citizens living in another EU country to
vote in European or local elections there, a majority said e-voting (68%); automatic registration on the
electoral roll when citizens register as residents (63%); and individual letters explaining how to register
and vote (51%) would be good ways to increase citizens participation. E-voting was also considered to
be a good way to make it easier for EU citizens living in another EU country to vote in elections in their
country of origin by a vast majority of respondents (81%) whereas 48% of respondents thought that
postal voting would make it easier. Still, respondents were, at the same time, concerned that e-voting
could lead to potential fraud (68%) or had concerns in relation to secrecy of the vote (54%).
10 11

European citizens and EU

EU citizens have the right to stand as candidates in local elections in the country in which they have
moved to, but certain posts in the executive body of a municipality can be allocated only to the countrys
own nationals in some EU countries. A large majority of respondents (83%) expressed the view that non-

common values
national EU citizens living in their country should be able to become members of the executive body of
a municipality (other than mayor).

The EU is founded on common values such as freedom, democracy, the rule of law and fundamental

European citizens and access to rights, including non-discrimination, inclusion, tolerance and respect for diversity. Close to 90% of
respondents thought that more should be done to promote and raise awareness of EU common
values. The great majority of respondents suggested that this should be done through school

news and political information
EU citizens use a variety of sources for obtaining news and political information on EU democracy and
elections. More than seven out of 10 respondents (72%) said they use internet platforms as a source
of information. Newspapers (63%) and TV (62%) were the second and third most popular sources of
information on EU matters.
Besides news, political broadcasting media and internet platforms in their country of residence
(which 95% of respondents consulted), two out of three respondents (65%) indicated that they also
consulted media and internet platforms of other EU countries, including their country or origin.
education, for example on EU citizenship and the values attached to it, including anti-discrimination
and tolerance (91%), mobility of young people, with Erasmus+ scholarships for instance (72%) and
cultural activities (60%).
Almost eight out of 10 respondents (78%) believed that local and regional authorities should play a
more important role in promoting EU common values.
Almost nine out of 10 respondents (88%) indicated that the EU should give a stronger voice to
citizens, especially young people, in democratic decision-making through online consultations and
dialogue mechanisms.

The majority of the respondents (53%) were only partially satisfied with the information they received.
They expressed the view, for instance, that cross-border coverage should be wider. More than eight
out of 10 respondents (83%) would be interested in accessing more news programmes and political
broadcasting across borders on issues related to European democracy and elections. Nine out of 10
respondents (91%) believed that access to such information across borders would allow EU citizens
to form clearer opinions on issues relevant to democracy in Europe.
12 13

CHAPTER 1

Profile of respondents
1.1 Who took part?
A total of 2170 citizens and organisations from all 28 EU countries took part in the 2015 public
consultation on EU citizenship. 2163 of the responses were received via the online survey and
seven in the form of written position papers which further elaborated on the issues raised.

2107 respondents completed the survey online as individuals (97%) while almost 3% responded on
behalf of an organisation or association (56).

The seven position papers were all received from organisations.

Total number of respondents in survey and consultation 2170

Number of surveys completed online 2163

Number of individual consultation responses (survey) 2107

Number of organisational consultation responses (survey) 56

Number of written position papers submitted by organisations 7

Number of comments and additional points submitted to open questions Approx. 7400

Most common nationality of respondents Italian

Most common country of residence of respondents Belgium

Country with highest proportion of respondents based on relative population Malta

14 15

1.2 Nationality of respondents

Young people were particularly active in the consultation. Almost a third (29%) of respondents was
aged 18-30. Those aged 31-40 was the next biggest age group (one out of four (25%)), while older
age groups were generally less represented.
People from all 28 EU countries responded to the consultation. In absolute terms, Italians, Germans,
Fig. 1: What is your age group? Greeks and British made up the largest number of responses. When compared with the size of each
countrys population, Maltese, Greeks and Luxembourgish were more eager to participate (see Map 2).
3% 2%
Map 2: Distribution of respondents as a proportion of national population

Under 18
Key
17%
29% 18-30
> 10 per 100,000
31-40
14% 7 to < 10 per 100,000
41-50
51-60 5 to < 7 per 100,000
61-70 3 to < 5 per 100,000
20% 25%
71+
< 3 per 100,000

Men and women were almost equally represented.

Fig. 2: Are you male or female?

Male
47% 53%
Female
16 17

1.3 Corporate respondents

A larger proportion of citizens living in Belgium and Italy replied in comparison to those living in other
EU countries.

Map 3: Distribution of responses by country of residence

Whilst the vast majority of survey respondents were citizens, 3% (56) replied on behalf of civil
Key society organisations, academic or research institutes, businesses or other institutional bodies, such
as embassies, European affairs organisations or think tanks.
> 8%

4% to < 8% The 56 responses completed online by organisations are categorised below.

2% to < 4% Fig.3: In what capacity are you completing the questionnaire? (Organisational respondents only)

1% to < 2%

< 1%

15 Civil Society
Academic/Research
35
Businesses
2
Others
4

In addition to the 56 organisations that completed the survey, seven organisations submitted position
papers to be considered as part of the consultation. Six of these organisations were civil society
organisations and one a regional association.
18 19

1.4 Mobility of respondents

Fig. 4: Distribution of responses from each country by nationality and country of residence of respondents

Austria 60% 40%

The large majority of the respondents (98%) had exercised their right to free movement within the EU. Belgium 17% 83%
Almost four out of 10 respondents (39%) were living in a country different to their country of origin
Bulgaria 78% 12%
at the time of the consultation. Respondents from Slovenia had not exercised their right to free
movement at the time of the consultation and all responded from their country of origin. Italian and Croatia 75% 25%

Greek respondents most often responded from their country of origin (above 90%) while respondents Cyprus 25% 75%
from Luxembourg, Belgium and Cyprus were most often living in another EU country at the time of the
Czech Republic 77% 23%
consultation (above 75%).
Denmark 37% 63%

Estonia 73% 27%

Finland 90% 10%

France 61% 39%

Germany 71% 29%

Greece 92% 8%

Hungary 69% 31%

Ireland 58% 42% Nationality

Italy 93% 7% Country of residence

Latvia 71% 29%

Lithuania 40% 60%

Luxembourg 12% 88%

Malta 73% 27%

Netherlands 38% 62%

Poland 85% 15%

Portugal 79% 21%

Romania 90% 10%

Slovakia 77% 23%

Slovenia 100%

Spain 58% 42%

69
64
Sweden 47% 53%

United Kingdom 52% 48%

20 21

CHAPTER 2

EU citizens and their

right to free movement
within the EU
2.1 Experiences of travelling
within the EU
The vast majority of respondents (98%) had travelled to another EU country at least once in their
lifetime. More than four out of five people who had travelled within the EU did so more than once per
year. Almost half of them (47%) travelled to another EU country between one and five times a year.
Fig. 5: How often do you travel to other EU countries? (All respondents)

19%
less than
once per 17%
47%
1-5 times per year
year 6-10 times
per year

14%
more than 4%
10 times regularly
per year
22 23

The age group with the most frequent travellers is 51-60. More than one in five respondents in this For the vast majority of respondents (94%), the main reason for travelling to another EU country was for
group had travelled 10 or more times a year. There are no significant differences in travel patterns a holiday. The majority also travelled for work related reasons (66%) and to visit family or friends (58%).
between men and women. Differences between nationalities are also limited.

Respondents living abroad at the time of the consultation travelled more frequently than those who
do not. Two out of 10 respondents (21%) travelled more than 10 times per year and one out of 20
(6%) commutes to another EU country.
2.2 Problems encountered by
Fig. 6: How often do you travel to other EU countries? (Respondents living in another EU country only)
certain groups of EU citizens
6% 6%
Less than once per year
when travelling within the EU
21% For most respondents, travelling within the EU was without problems. Some respondents did
1 - 5 times per year however experience or report problems met by certain groups of EU citizens when travelling within the
42% 6 - 10 times per year EU. Just over a quarter felt that they, or other EU citizens they knew, had been discriminated against
based on personal characteristics (28%).
More than 10 times per year
Regularly (commuter)
25% Fig 8: If you or other EU citizens you know have experienced problems when travelling to another EU
country, which of the following personal characteristics was it based on?

Racial or ethnic origin? 79%

By contrast, fewer than one in 10 respondents (8%) living in their home country travelled more than
10 times per year and just one in 50 (2%) travelled regularly to other EU countries (commuters).
Religion or belief? 23%
Fig. 7: How often do you travel to other EU countries? (Respondents living their home EU country)

2% Gender? 20%

8% Disability? 16%

Less than once per year

12% 27%
Age? 15%
1 - 5 times per year
6 - 10 times per year
Sexual orientation? 0%
More than 10 times per year
Regularly (commuter)
51%
24 25

2.3 Citizens views on what 2.4 Experience of living in

could make transport and another EU country
travelling easier for people
Six out of 10 respondents lived or had lived for at least three months in a country of the EU other
than their own (60%).

Fig. 10: Respondents living or having lived in another EU country for at least three months (by

with reduced mobility or people nationality)

100%

with disabilities 86% 84%

83%

73% 73% 73% 72% 71%

It is often more difficult for people with reduced mobility or people with disabilities to travel. Three 69% 69%
65% 64% 63%
quarters of respondents (74%) thought that accessible transport infrastructure such as airports, 62% 61%
59% 58%
ports, train stations or bus terminals and vehicles would make transport and travelling in the EU 52% 51% 50% 50%
49% 48%
easier for people with reduced mobility or disabilities. Just over half of respondents (51%) said 46% 46%
42%
that more information on the accessibility or limitations of transport infrastructure or vehicles, e.g. on
30%
the respective websites would make it easier for these more vulnerable EU citizens.

Fig. 9: Do you agree or disagree with the following ways of making transport and travelling easier for
citizens with reduced mobility and/or disabilities?

Accessible transport infrastructure 74% 10% 17%

Cyprus

Czech Republic

Ireland

Luxembourg

Denmark

Lithuania

Slovenia

United Kingdom

Slovakia

Latvia

Spain

Romania

Bulgaria

Netherlands

Hungary

France

Finland

Germany

Austria

Belgium

Croatia

Portugal

Greece

Sweden

Estonia

Italy

Poland

Malta
Information on the accessibility of transport 51% 31% 18%

Recognition of disability status abroad 45% 24% 32%

Assistance during travel 41% 42% 17%

Accessible websites 36% 41% 23%

Better information on passenger rights 27% 38% 35%

Better information on ticketing 26% 45% 29%

Assistance during booking process 24% 45% 32%

Strongly agree Neither agree nor disagree Strongly disagree

26 27

People of different ages had different experiences of living abroad. More than seven out of 10 Reasons for living in another EU country vary by age group. Most of respondents aged 18-30 lived or
respondents over the age of 71 (72%) had lived in another EU country. The same goes with seven had lived abroad for education, while respondents aged between 31 and 50 were more likely to have
out of 10 respondents (70%) aged 1830. Six out of 10 respondents (61%) in their thirties had also moved to another EU country to work.
lived in another EU country.
Fig. 13: Purpose for living in another EU country for more than three months by age group
Fig. 11: Respondents living or having lived in another EU country by age group
4%
71+ 72% 71+ 18%
44%

61-70 51%
7%
61-70 11%
51-60 47% 32%

14%
41-50 50%
51-60 15%
32%
31-40 61%
22%
41-50 26%
18-30 68%
36%

Under 18 31% 29%

31-40 41%
45%
Most respondents who lived or had lived in another EU county had done so for work related reasons
(66%). A similar number of respondents had moved to another EU country in order to study or 22%
volunteer (64%). One out of four lived/had lived abroad for family reasons (25%). 18-30 58%
35%
Fig. 12: If you have lived in another EU for more than three months, what was the purpose?

3%
Work 66% Under 18 8%
0%

Education and volunteering 64%

Family Education Work
Family reasons 25%
28 29

2.4.1 Information consulted before deciding to move to another EU
country
Almost all respondents (96%) had looked for information on administrative requirements and
procedures before deciding whether to move to another EU country. Where respondents had looked
for such information, most had looked for information on residence documents, including on how to
register in the municipality (69%). Half had collected information on requirements regarding studying
abroad (50%). Respondents had also looked up information on employment and working conditions
(45%), social security and welfare (41%) and the recognition of diplomas (39%).
Fig.14: What kind of information did you seek to obtain before deciding whether to move to another
EU country?
2.4.2 Sources of information consulted
Respondents stated that the main source of information consulted prior to moving to another EU country
were websites of public authorities of that country. These included websites of authorities at local,
regional and national level. Approximately three out of four respondents (73%) searching for information
available online had used websites of authorities in the EU country to which they were planning to move.
Fig. 15: What sources of information did you consult prior to moving to another EU country?
Web portals, information and assistance 73%
Personal contacts (e.g. family, friends) 64%

Administrative requirements and procedures 96%

Web portals of EU institutions 35%

Rights to vote and stand as a candidate 19%

Unofficial/commercial/private websites 34%

Family related matters 16%

Advisors at universities/schools 31%

Requirements/procedures for acquiring nationality 12%

Expatriate organisations or communities 28%

Accommodation and housing 1%

Social media (e.g. LinkedIn, Facebook) 25%

Other 15%
Books 14%

Chambers of commerce 4%

Respondents also said they had been looking for information on, for example, how to access healthcare
or a family doctor and on how to register a car. Other 9%
30 31

2.4.3 Use of EU websites 2.4.4 How satisfied were citizens with the sources of
Many respondents also used EU websites or websites funded by the EU as a source of information information used?
before deciding to move. Where respondents looked up information before deciding to move to another EU country, more than
Fig. 16: Please indicate which, if any, of the following EU websites/services (or supported by the EU) three-quarters (77%) were generally satisfied with the sources of information they had used. The
you have used? reasons respondents reported for not being satisfied tended to be related to the general character of
the information provided or to the lack of user friendly information.

EUROPA/European Commission website

63% I do not find them user friendly. There is a mass of information
but it is not written in clear English and tends to be very legalistic.
Your Europe portal
31% Far more simple and brief information is required for the casual
enquirer. (British Respondent)
EURES
27%
National websites provided certain general information but I
Europe Direct 26% never found answers to questions I was looking for. There is a
bubble that exists between the practice in each Member State
EU representation in your country 19% and the information that is available to the public. In the end I
managed, but it took me some time. (Czech Respondent)
European e-Justice Portal
11%

SOLVIT 10%
2.5 Difficulties experienced
ENIC-NARIC portal

when living in another

6%

Enterprise Europe Network 4%

Other 13% EU country

Two in three respondents (64%) who lived or had lived in another EU country said they did not
experience difficulties in their day-to-day life with regard to the exercise of their rights as EU
citizens after having moved to another EU country.

Those respondents who said they had experienced difficulties reported primarily problems related to
lengthy or unclear administrative procedures (69%), followed by a lack of sufficient information on
their rights as non-nationals or a lack of awareness thereof (51%). Four out of 10 respondents (41%)
said they had experienced difficulties in getting access to private services (e.g., banking or utilities).
32 33

Fig. 17: After having moved to another EU country, did you encounter any difficulties in your day to Out of the respondents who lived or had lived in another EU country, the vast majority (78%) said they
day life with regard to the exercise of your rights as an EU citizen? had not been discriminated against by the administration, public authorities or public service
providers in that country because of their nationality.
Lengthy or unclear administrative procedures 69%
One in five (22%) said they had experienced discrimination because of their nationality. They had
encountered problems across a range of services, in particular when requiring assistance from the
Lack of sufficient information on/awareness of rights 51%
public employment services (29%) or access to healthcare system (27%).

Fig. 18: If you have ever been discriminated against by the administration, public authorities or public
Difficulties in getting access to private services 41%
service providers in another EU country because of your nationality, in what areas did you encounter
problems?
Difficulties in the communication between public authorities 38%

Assistance by public employment services 29%

Difficulties with the healthcare system 36%

Access to the healthcare system 27%

Difficulties in exercising your electoral rights 29%

Acceptance of civil status documents 26%

Difficulties in having qualifications recognised 21%

Access to social security/recognition of acquired rights 24%

Difficulties with the education system 11%

Access to social and tax advantages 24%

Non-recognition of disability-related entitlements 3%

Tax rules and procedures 22%

Recognition of academic or professional qualifications 20%

We moved from Belgium to the Netherlands. For each application
(requesting an ID, registering my bicycle, registering to vote,
Access to education or professional training 12%
registering my car, insurance, bank etc.) I needed to request a
proof of residency from the municipality. Each time this costs EUR
Access to the education system 7%
12.50 as the proof is only valid for three months it becomes an
expensive joke. Problems with ID: My home country wants an ID
Other 25%
picture with a white background, while my country of residence
wants one with a grey background. Whenever they differ, my ID is
not valid. (Belgian Respondent)
34 35

Initially, awareness that Malta had joined EU was low so at times Fig. 19: If you were planning to move to another EU country, what measures would help you to prepare?
I experienced problems in having my documents accepted.
(Maltese Respondent)

73%
Almost nine out of ten respondents (87%) reported that they had never faced problems when
returning to their country of origin because they had resided in another EU country. Of those (13%)
who had encountered difficulties, most were related to practical difficulties such as the need to
82%
Online
E-services on
administrative
re-register for health insurance or social security or the lack of recognition of any qualifications they formalities
had obtained whilst abroad. information
on practical 5%
issues 56%
Other

2.6 Views on making it easier Cooperation

between public
authorities
to live in another EU country
Respondents had strong views on how moving and settling down in another EU country could be
made easier.
Policies dont make things easier. Changing procedures and
When asked what would help them to prepare if they were planning to move, more than eight out cutting red tape does. (Dutch Respondent)
of 10 respondents (82%) said that information on practical issues in the country in which they were
planning to move would help. This would comprise for example, information on how to register as a
resident, register in electoral rolls, set up a business, take up a job, have qualifications recognised, Other suggestions made by respondents included having uniform levels of fees especially university
enrol children at school, register a car, retire etc. fees for all EU citizens; an integrated taxation system; a more integrated banking sector, etc.

Almost three out of four respondents (73%) would welcome the availability of e-services enabling
them to fulfil administrative formalities in the country of destination online, such as the possibility to
fill in administrative forms online.
The majority of respondents (56%) thought that it would be helpful if the authorities of their country
of origin could directly cooperate with the authorities of the EU country in which they were planning
to move, to ease administrative formalities in the country when planning to settle down.
When asked what would help them settle down if they were living in another EU country, almost nine
out of 10 respondents (87%) indicated that settling down in another EU country would be facilitated
if authorities provided information and assistance responding to the individual needs and questions of
newcomers at their request through one-stop-shop websites would be the most helpful.
Just under half of the respondents (49%) said policies to promote dialogue between cultures, mutual
understanding and inclusion (including in schools) would be helpful when settling down.

Almost half of the respondents (47%) would like to receive effective support and assistance in the
enforcement of their rights through specialised bodies.
36 37

2.7 Views on ways to foster

Fig. 20: If you were living in another EU country, which measures would most help you to settle down?

Information and assistance through

87%

learning mobility for students,

one-stop-shop web portals

Policies to promote intercultural dialogue, mutual

49%
understanding, inclusion

Effective support in the enforcement of rights through

specialised bodies
47% trainees, volunteers and
Policies to support employment and entrepreneurship 43%
teachers
Policies to facilitate and promote political and civic 37% 2.7.1 Opportunities created for young people to study, train and
participation
volunteer in another EU country
Active diversity management policies in
16%
private companies More and more young people in Europe are studying, training or volunteering in another EU
country, either during their studies or at the beginning of their professional career. The vast majority
Policies related to disability status entitlements 10% of respondents held positive views on these cross-border experiences.

Fig. 21: Do you think that cross-border training, education and volunteering experience (multiple
Other 4% replies possible):

Increases potential and career prospects 85%

Fosters mutual understanding and respect for diversity 84%

Helps in fostering an EU identity 72%

Does not provide any particular benefit 3%

Other
3%

It is a real opportunity to improve the feeling that we all belong to

one continent, one destiny, and to foster the EU identity.
(French Respondent)
38 39

2.7.2 Tools to facilitate mobility for young people beyond 2.7.4 Erasmus+
employment Erasmus+ is the EU programme for education, training, youth and sport for 2014-2020. Erasmus+
finances activities and projects which enable people (students, trainees, youngsters, teachers, trainers,
Respondents were asked what would be useful support for young people looking for opportunities
lecturers and youth workers) to move around the EU to study, train, gain work experience or volunteer.
beyond employment. More than eight out of 10 of the respondents to this question (85%) said that a
platform hosting cross-border placements or offers for apprenticeships and trainees would be helpful
One in eight respondents stated that they had applied for an Erasmus+ grant (13%). Seven in 10
to young people.
Erasmus+ applicants were aged 40 or younger (70%).
Fig. 22: What do you think would be helpful, in your view, to support young people looking for
opportunities beyond employment? (multiple replies possible) Only 12% indicated that they did not know about the programme.

Fig 24: Age breakdown of those who had applied for a grant from the Erasmus+ programme
Platform for cross-border placements 85%
1% 1%
0%
Mentor advice 63%
Under 18
7%
Peer advice
18 - 30
61%
31 - 40
Other
21%
4% 41 - 50
46%
51 - 60
61 - 70
2.7.3 Citizens views on how to foster learning mobility 24% 71+
Almost eight out of 10 respondents (77%) thought that inviting teachers from other EU countries
to teach at institutions (such as schools) would be the most beneficial for learners (77%). Almost
seven out of 10 respondents (69%) said it would be beneficial if teachers were helped to share good
practices with their peers across borders. Two-thirds of respondents (67%) said that it would also Several respondents took the opportunity to comment that they had benefited from, and enjoyed,
benefit learners if they could receive lectures from invited staff of companies from other countries. the Erasmus programme. One respondent also took the opportunity to call on the EU to do more to
support the participation of people with disabilities in these programmes.
Fig.23: Which activities do you think would benefit learners?

Invite teachers from other EU countries

Just look at how many Erasmus marriages there are!
77%
(British Respondent)
Teachers sharing good practices across borders 69%

Invite lecturers from companies in other EU countries 67%

40 41

2.8 Overall views on free

There was no notable variation of the views expressed across EU countries.

There is no better way of fostering mutual understanding than

movement of citizens within

the creation and maintenance of relationships, whether at
professional or personal level. (British Respondent)

the EU Free movement is the greatest of all EU achievements.

The overwhelming majority of respondents had a positive view on free movement of citizens within Implementation still needs work in several countries, but it is
the EU. In particular: worth it! (Austrian Respondent)
More than four in five respondents (81%) were of the opinion that moving to another EU country
brings with it cultural diversity;
This (free movement) is the heart and soul of Europe. Without it
Almost eight out of 10 respondents (77%) thought that moving to another EU country fosters
mutual understanding; there is no EU. (Bulgarian Respondent)
More than seven out of 10 respondents (75%) held that moving to another EU country brings
specific knowledge and skills; Those respondents who expressed the view that moving to another EU country created problems
Seven out of 10 respondents (70%) believed that moving to another EU country helps create an tended to refer especially to practical reasons.
EU identity;
More than six out of 10 respondents (61%) were of the opinion that moving to another EU country
creates economic growth; It is an enormously stressful thing to do. Housing, work, tax,
Less than two out of 10 respondents (16%) expressed the view that moving to another EU country entitlements... all very different and very hard to learn.
created problems. (British Respondent)
Fig. 25: Do you think that moving to another EU country brings any of the following?

77% 76%
81%
Has a positive
fosters mutual
understanding brings specific
knowledge
and skills
effect on
cultural 70% 16%
61%
diversity helps create brings
creates
an EU problems
identity economic
growth
42 43

CHAPTER 3

EU citizenship: Citizens
as political actors
and democracy
3.1 Citizens experience in
participation in the democratic
life of the EU
EU citizenship gives every citizen the right to vote for and stand as a candidate in European elections.
When they live in another EU country, they can choose to vote in their country of origin or in the
country in which they live.

More than eight out of 10 respondents (82%) indicated that they had voted in the European elections
in their country of origin. Just over two in 10 respondents (22%) indicated that they had made use
of the possibility to vote in the country in which they were living.
44 45

In the two tables below, Mobile citizens refers to citizens who were living in another EU country at
the time of the consultation. Non-mobile citizens were those living in their country of origin at the
time of the consultation. It should also be noted that respondents who were living in their country of
origin at the time of the consultation could also reply that they had voted in another EU country if
they had done so in the past when living abroad (and vice versa).
Fig. 26: Have you exercised your right to vote in European Parliament elections in your own country?
Only three out of 10 respondents (30%) who had lived or were currently living in another EU country
had voted or stood as a candidate in local elections in the EU country in which they were living.
EU citizenship does not grant the right to EU citizens to vote or stand as a candidate in national or
regional elections in the EU country in which they live. Just over one out of 10 respondents (12%)
who had lived or were currently living in another EU country had voted or stood as candidate during
national or regional elections in the EU country in which they were living4.

Mobile citizens 72% 28% Just over half of respondents (53%) who had lived or were currently living in another EU country had
voted or stood as a candidate at national or regional elections in their own country.

Several respondents complained about the fact that EU citizens who lived in another EU country had,
Non-mobile citizens 88% 12% in some cases, no right to vote at any national or regional elections, which was felt as undemocratic.

Allow citizens to maintain their right to vote after they have

All 82% 18%
moved abroad. It is completely undemocratic to have EU-citizens
with no right to vote at any national or regional level. And yet, this
is my case. (British Respondent)
Yes No

Fig. 27: Have you exercised your right to vote in European Parliament elections in another EU country? Only one in five respondents (21%) said they had experienced difficulties exercising their right to
vote in European and/or local elections whilst living in another EU country.

Mobile citizens 46% 54% Some nationalities (such as Maltese and Spanish) seemed to experience more problems in exercising
their voting rights while living in another EU country whilst others such as Croatians, Cypriots and
Poles reported fewer problems.

Non-mobile citizens 6% 94%

The respondents living in Cyprus, Lithuania and Luxembourg seemed to experience more practical
difficulties in exercising their voting rights while respondents living in Greece, Hungary and Romania
reported the fewest problems.
All 22% 78%

Yes No

EU citizens who are living in another EU country also have the right to vote and stand as candidates Voting in national elections as a non-national EU citizen residing in a country other than that of his or her nationality is only possible for Irish citizens living
4

in the UK and vice versa. Some EU countries, such as Sweden and Denmark, have decided to grant EU citizens the right to vote in the regional elections
in local elections in the country in which they live, under the same conditions as the nationals of that organised on their territory. For more details see the Annex in the Commission Implementing decision of 24 July 2012 (2012/412/EU) http://eur-lex.europa.
country. eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex:32012D0412
46 47

Fig.28 Have you experienced difficulties in voting in European and/or local elections whilst living in Respondents experienced a range of problems when exercising their right to vote in European or
another EU country? (responses by nationality and by country of residence) local elections whilst living in another EU country. Just over half of the respondents (51%) found
the procedures for registration on the electoral roll burdensome. Almost one out of two respondents
Austria 14% (47%) said that information on how to vote was either insufficient or unclear.
10%
Belgium 28% Fig. 29: If you encountered difficulties in voting, what were the reasons for the difficulties encountered?
20%
Bulgaria 17%
21%
Croatia Administrative burden for registering on the electoral roll 51%
67%
Cyprus
Czech Republic 27% Insufficient/unclear information on how to vote 47%
33%
Denmark 13%
8% Insufficient or unclear information received regarding
registration on the electoral roll 43%
Estonia 33%
22%
Finland 27%
21% Lack of information about my rights 39%
France 2%
18%
Germany 22% Difficulties in accessing the polling station due to
disability or reduced mobility 6%
Greece 8%
18%
6%
Hungary 14%
Yes - Country of Residence Other 29%
18%
Ireland 24%
Yes - Nationality
15%
Italy 18%
Latvia 15%
Lithuania 50% Other problems mentioned by the respondents were:
33%
Luxembourg 25%
36% Lack of possibility to vote electronically or online;
33%
Malta 44% Lack of information in the language other than the local one;
Netherlands 21% Lack of awareness in local administrations;
14%
10%
Poland 9% Problems related to the postal system, with postal ballots either being lost or never arriving;
17%
Portugal 15% Losing the right to vote in the country of origin after spending more than a certain amount of time
5% abroad while not being able to vote in the country in which they live.
Romania 22%
Slovakia 30%
25%
Slovenia 18%
32%
Spain 43%
24%
Sweden 22%
24%
United Kingdom 24%
48 49

The UK system debars non-residents from voting in regional Fig.30: Which of the following could in your opinion increase citizens participation in European
elections?
or local elections. We are able to vote in UK national elections
but the postal voting system is not fit for purpose, leading to The relevance of EU policies for citizens'
80%
votes lost or not arriving on time, consistently over 12 years. daily lives being better explained
After 15 years away our vote is taken away completely leaving More information on programmes and objectives of the
us unrepresented both in the UK and in France. The EU should lead candidates for the function of President of the EC
65%

address such anomalies. (British Respondent)

More information on the EP elections 57%

More information on the programmes and

3.2 Citizens views on how to

44%
objectives of candidates and parties in the EP

Voting being made more accessible to all,

32%

increase citizens participation

including people with disabilities and older people

Other 8%

in the democratic life of the EU
3.2.1 How to increase participation in European elections
Eight out of 10 respondents (80%) thought that better explanations of how EU policies are relevant
to their daily lives would encourage voting in EU elections. This was the view in particular of first
time voters and young adults (18-30). More than eight out of 10 respondents (84%) of this age group
thought that this would help increase citizens participation.
Almost two thirds of the respondents (65%) called for more information on the policies and objectives
of candidates and parties in the European Parliament. A majority of respondents (57%) would like
to receive more information on the European Parliament elections as such. More than four out of 10
respondents (44%) would like to obtain more information on programmes and objectives of the lead
candidates for the function of President of the European Commission. Slightly less than a third of
respondents (31%) thought that voting should be made more accessible in practice to all, including to
people with disabilities and older people.
Other suggestions made by respondents to increase citizens participation in European elections
mentioned by respondents included:
Promoting an EU-debate;
Increasing the national media broadcasting of European elections in EU countries, particularly of
the debate between the lead candidates for the function of President of the European Commission;
Organising European elections at EU-level and on the same day;
A pan-European list to give the European elections their own identity;
A mix of local candidates and a proportional representation system;
National general media should broadcast the EU Commission
presidential debate. (French Respondent)
EU elections should be organised at EU level, not by Member
States. People dont see the issues as theres no EU-debate and
the framework is confusing. Its hard to understand why Brits vote
on Thursdays while the French only on Sundays. If given more
time and access, people would be likely to vote or feel the urge to
vote. (French Respondent)
50 51

3.2.2 How to make it easier to vote in European or local elections Please, make e-voting happen. We are in 2015, the security
in another EU country argument against e-voting is clearly not holding up. If e-banking
EU citizens residing in another EU country should be able to easily exercise their right to vote in can be secure enough, voting can be as well.
European and local elections there. (Slovenian Respondent)

Regarding specific practices which could make it easier for EU citizens living in another EU country to I did not know I could vote. Do you ever show it/promote it in the
vote in European or local elections there, a large majority (68%) believed that a good way to do so media? (Danish Respondent)
would be the possibility to vote using electronic or online tools. Automatic registration on the electoral
roll when citizens register as residents (63%) and individual letters explaining how to register and
I was not aware that I could already vote. I would have wanted
vote (51%) would also be good ways to increase participation for EU citizens residing in another
EU country. to. I found out too late. I think this should be promoted
much more so that all citizens of the EU are made aware.
Fig. 31: Which of the following practices could make it easier for EU citizens residing in another EU
country to exercise their right to vote in European/local elections there?
(Romanian Respondent)

Possibility to cast vote using electronic/online tools 68%

3.2.3 How to make it easier for citizens living in another EU country
to vote in European or local elections in their country of origin
Registration on the electoral roll Some EU countries offer the possibility for their own nationals who reside abroad to cast their vote
63%
automatically based on residency
in national elections from the country in which they live. Possibilities include voting by post, using
Receiving individual letters electronic or online tools and voting in consulates etc. The vast majority of respondents (94%) agreed
51% that such possibilities simplify life for EU citizens living in another EU country.
explaining how to register and vote

Possibility to cast vote by post
Improve accessibility of polling stations,
in particular for people with reduced mobility
Other
39% E-voting was also considered to be a good way to make it easier for EU citizens living in another
EU country to vote in elections in their country of origin by a vast majority of respondents (81%)
whereas 48% of respondents thought that postal voting would make it easier.
27%
Fig. 32: Which of the following possibilities would make it easier for EU citizens living in another EU
country to vote in elections in their home country?
3%

Possibility to cast their vote using electronic/online tools 81%

Possibility to cast their vote by post 48%

Possibility to cast their vote in consulates 41%

Other 3%
52 53

Voting by post is too slow, voting at a consulate inconvenient (and
for most people impossible). Electronic voting is definitely the way
to go in this case with other options available for those unused to
computer technology. (UK Respondent)
There was some difference across nationalities. In particular, e-voting was thought to be helpful in
particular by Croatians, Cypriots and Lithuanians. It was considered less helpful by Austrians, Germans
and Swedes.
Austrians, German and Irish most often thought that postal voting would be helpful. It was felt to be
least helpful by Lithuanian, Bulgarians and Hungarians.
Voting in consulates was seen as a helpful idea most often by Cypriots, Finns, Slovenians and Swedes.
It was seen as helpful least often by Croatians and Lithuanians.
Concerns on electronic voting vary by nationality. Slovenians are the most concerned about potential
fraud (82%), while Estonians the least (33%). Slovenian respondents were also the most worried
about the system not being accessible to all (82%). Finnish respondents were particularly concerned
(62%) about the independence of the vote.
3.2.4 Citizens views on extending the electoral rights of EU
citizens in local elections
EU citizens who live in another EU country have the right to stand as candidates in local elections
there under the same conditions as the nationals of that country. However, EU countries have the
right to exclude citizens from other EU countries from a number of posts in the executive bodies of
the municipalities.
More than eight out of 10 respondents (83%) thought that EU citizens living in another EU country
should be able to become members of the executive body of a municipality. A large majority of
respondents in all EU countries except one (Estonia) agreed that this should be the case.

When asked if they would have specific concerns about e-voting, almost seven out of 10 (68%) had Fig.34: Do you consider that EU citizens living in another EU country should be able to run in local
concerns about potential fraud. The majority (54%) were concerned about potential impact on the elections and become members of the executive body of a municipality?
secrecy of the vote. Nearly half of respondents (44%) would have concerns related to the system not
100%
being accessible to all.
92% 91% 91% 91% 90%
89% 88%
86% 86% 86% 86% 84%
Fig. 33: If you had the opportunity to vote by means of electronic/online tools, would you have specific 83% 83% 83% 83% 82% 82% 80%
78% 76% 75%
concerns about any of the following?
70% 70% 69%
64%

Potential fraud 68%

46%

Secrecy of the vote 54%

System not accessible to all 44%

Independence of the vote 25%

Belgium

Bulgaria
Spain

Croatia

Latvia

Austria
Lithuania

France
United Kingdom

Estonia
Slovenia
Portugal

Malta

Italy

Hungary
Slovakia

Finland
Netherlands

Romania

Luxembourg

Germany

Sweden
Ireland

Denmark
Greece
Cyprus

Poland
Czech Republic
Other 5%
54 55

3.3 Citizens experience and

The vast majority (95%) of respondents said they used news and political broadcasting media and
internet platforms in the country in which they lived. More than six out of 10 respondents (65%) also
consulted media and internet platforms in other EU countries, including their country of origin if they

views about access to news

were living in another EU country.

Only four out of 10 respondents (40%) said they were satisfied with the information they receive.

and political information

Over half of the respondents (53%) said that they were only partially satisfied.

EU citizens use a variety of sources for accessing news and political information on issues related I did not feel that I had enough political information to make
to European democracy and elections. Access to such information is essential to allow European a decision. (Hungarian Respondent)
citizens to fully participate in the democratic life of the EU.

Fig. 35: What source of information do you use to keep up to date on news and political broadcasting,
including European elections? Fig. 36: Are you satisfied with the information you receive?

Internet 72%
8%
Newspapers 63%
No

Television Yes
62%
53% 39%
Partially (e.g. cross-border coverage could
Social Media 52% be wider)

Radio 49%

More than seven out of 10 respondents (72%) said they use internet platforms as the primary
source of information on political news and broadcasting. Newspapers (63%) and TV (62%) were
the second and third most popular sources of information on EU matters. Young people preferred, to
a very large extent, to use internet and social media as their primary source of information. Older
respondents (aged over 61) considered the radio and newspapers as the most important source
of information.
Almost a quarter of the respondents complained about the lack of cross-border coverage of news
and political broadcasting. Almost two-thirds of these felt that the coverage of European issues
tended to be one-sided or influenced by the national perspective. Respondents also said that little or
no information was available from a pan-European perspective.
56 57

Cross-border coverage is sometimes very bad. In Germany we

dont know whats going on in France or what the Poles think. And
these are both neighbouring countries! (German Respondent)

Other respondents regretted that access to media platforms of other EU countries was not available
from everywhere due to geo-blocking. This was particularly stressed by EU nationals who were living
in another EU country and were unable to follow news from their home country.

Information should be more independent and truly cross-border.

Some content is geo-blocked. (Portugese Respondent)

More than eight out of 10 respondents (83%) would be interested in accessing more news programmes
and political broadcasting across the EU. This should be across national borders and on issues related
to European democracy and elections.

Nine out of 10 respondents (91%) thought that more access to news and political broadcasting
information across borders would allow EU citizens to form clearer opinions on issues relevant to
democracy in Europe.

Respondents suggested that EU programmes, policies and initiatives should be promoted to a

greater extent.
58 59

CHAPTER 4

Citizens views on
the promotion of EU
common values
The European Union is founded on common values such as democracy, the rule of law, and
fundamental rights. European common values include non-discrimination, inclusion, tolerance and
respect for diversity.

4.1 More should be done to promote EU common values

Nine out of 10 respondents (90%) thought that more should be done to promote and raise awareness
of these common values. This can be achieved in a number of ways, respondents believed, such as
through school education (91%), through the mobility of young people (72%), cultural activities (60%)
and through youth organisations and youth work (54%).

Through personal experience and shared experienced events, this

thinking can change. Particularly I see sport and cultural exchange
as a mouthpiece for the common people who want to have little
to do with politics. The European idea is a win for all EU citizens,
but sometimes it seems to feel like the smallest element
in the EU. (German Respondent)
60
Fig. 37: If you think more should be done to promote and raise awareness of these common values
in our societies, how could this be done?
School education
The mobility of young people
Cultural activities
Youth organisations and youth work
University learning and research
Initiatives to generate debate
amongst citizens on these issues
Debates within civil society tackling the processes of
stigmatisation, exclusion and discrimination
Life-long learning
Transnational sport or other events
Citizenship ceremonies for new citizens
Other
61
People dont know anything about the values of the EU All we
hear about the EU is through the media, and its more often than
not negative. (Slovenian Respondent)
91%
4.2 The role of local and regional authorities
72%
More than three out of four respondents (78%) thought that local and regional authorities should play
a more important role in promoting EU common values. Suggestions from the respondents regarding
60% the tools that could be used to this end included:
Cross-cultural events and festivals;
54%
Festivals celebrating cross European achievements - and
54% encouraging various nationalities to take part in cross cultural
events. (UK Respondent)
51%
Local EU ambassadors whose job would be to promote the work of the EU at a local level;
48% A better narrative of what the EU has done as an institution and of what would not have been
possible without the work of the EU.
48%
They can promote what the EU is funding in our regions. What
projects wouldnt have been possible without financial support
36%
from EU. (French Respondent)
29%
4.3 Give EU citizens a stronger voice
4% Almost nine out of 10 respondents (88%) thought that the EU should do more to give citizens,
a stronger voice in democratic decision-making through online consultations and dialogue
mechanisms. Many people agreed that such efforts should focus especially on young people. Many
respondents also said that this should not be at the exclusion of older people.
Respondents were keen to play a more active role in the European political life and called for more
interaction with EU, national and local politicians on issues that matter to them.
Roundtables organised to this end, debates, new EU citizens
discussing on EU values with politicians (e.g. at Citizens
Dialogues). (Czech Respondent)
62 63

More information on the European Union is available on the Internet (http://europa.eu).

Luxembourg: Publications Office of the European Union, 2016
ISBN 978-92-79-57029-2
doi:10.2838/4648
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