In recent years, Euroscepticism has become a part of mass political and popular culture and has surprised many with its power. Eurosceptical parties are gaining support at all levels of government. The main causes of Euroscepticism are disappointment towards economic and social circumstances, but also difficulties in understanding the complex political system of the European Union, which makes the European project quite unclear to citizens. Overcoming Euroscepticism is a painstaking process of explaining, in a complex and dynamic global context, the full benefits of European integration. However, this does not mean that the existing political and institutional framework is beyond question, and as such it should not be adjusted or modified.
Against this backdrop, this townhall meeting, co-organised by TEPSA and its Croatian member the Institute for Development and International Relations (IRMO) with the support of the Europe for Citizens Programme of the European Union, analysed the causes, as well as the possible responses to this complex phenomenon. The event also stimulated a debate with citizens on this important topic, which cannot be overlooked in all reflections on the future of Europe.
The following speakers provided their insights during the debate:
- Hrvoje Butković – Institute for Development and International Relations
- Violeta Simeonova Staničić – European Parliament Office in Croatia
- Dario Cepo – Faculty of Law and Center for Democracy and Law Miko Tripalo
- Sandra Benčić – Political platform “We can”
- Katja Šare – Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs
The event was held in Croatian. More information about the event, as well as the townhall meeting agenda, can be found here.
