emilie, france

In France, Anais met Emilie, a 28 years old school teacher.

Question: What comes to mind when I say �European Union�?

Emilie: The first thing would be, a lot of problems at the beginning of its implementation, during its implementation and even now, with enlargement. But it also means a potential, for multiples exchanges and a beautiful flag!

Question: At the moment, what opinion do you think the people have of the EU?

Emilie: I think mixed feelings. People realize that the EU could be a �plus� in their daily life but on the other hand they don�t want changes. French people don�t like changing their habits�

Question: What fears do your people have of the EU?

Emilie: Less employment, inflation, the increase in the cost of living and immigration.

Question: How is the relationship between your country and bigger countries like Germany and the UK? And what do you think about it?

Emilie: Not so good I think. Mainly because of international affairs with the UK. Concerning Germany, I have the feeling that they are disappointed by us.

Question: What would be your worst idea about the EU?

Emilie: That it enters a war.

Question: Do you know how the EU works?

Emilie: Not really, and I realise it even more now that I am answering this interview. Actually, I realise that people, especially the media, keep talking about the EU without really going into details that would help me to better understand.

Question: If I told you that about 70% of the new laws in your country come from Brussels would that be ok for you?

Emilie: Firstly, I would be surprised to learn that French politicians actually listen to someone else than themselves! And I would also be surprised that these laws are not discussed, especially during campaigns.

Question: Keeping the last questions in mind, what do you think about the role of your national parliament?

Emilie: I think that they do not have a role anymore. However, I don�t like to make generalisations. They are still important enough to regulate on national matters that reflect our diversity and that cannot be dealt with by the EU.

Question: Do you think there should be more information about how the European institutional system works?

Emilie: Sure. Especially for teachers like me and for their students as well. One must not forget that they are tomorrow�s European citizens�

Question: According to you, what should the EU focus on? And why the EU should itself deal with it?

Emilie: The EU should concentrate on the relations between the Member States and on their resources since I believe that it is the first goal of the Union.

Question: Do you think that it is important to have, on the international scene, a Europe as one entity in the world or do you think it's better to have strong States who cooperate together?

Emilie: Regarding that matter, I think the question is not the form of the EU but more the behaviors of countries that make bad decisions like the US.

Question: Would you like the EU to become a federal State?

Emilie: I already thought it was one!

Question: What about a European army?

Emilie: A new army, again? What for? Being together makes us stronger but I would be disappointed if this strength was used for military purposes. An army could be useful in case of natural catastrophe but I think that national army can already take care of it.

Question: Should there be a common language in the EU?

Emilie: No, but that�s my inner national pride talking...

Question: Do you believe that there is a limit to the development of the EU? If yes, how to know where that limit is?

Emilie: It depends. I think we should be careful not to change national culture. From a geographical point of view, I think we should stick to countries that share our way of life (and this is not against Turkey�). Regarding diplomacy, it is good to be part of a group of many countries. If there were only a few countries they would have too much power, and as we say, too much power just kills power� However, we have to make sure that the EU is not too big because then it wouldn�t be able to deal with everyone�s problems.

Question: Do you think this is worth the adventure? Do you think the whole development is too fast?

Emilie: Yes, it is worth it and I don�t think it is going too fast, or maybe I just don�t realise it!

Question: One says that you tend not to care about something as long as it�s not related to money. Do you think that setting up a European tax would raise the people's interest in the EU or it would only be another step towards a United States of Europe-like structure?

Emilie: It depends; I wouldn�t like to pay more taxes. We are already taxed enough. However, I wouldn�t mind paying taxes to the EU if it was deduced from my national taxes.

Question: According to you, is the EU too bureaucratic?

Emilie: Yes, and I think we can see that through this interview!

Question: Would you say that the EU is democratic?

Emilie: Yes and No. I think that politicians� opinions are too detached from the people and it is reflected in the votes.

Question: Last, but not least, how big is the impact of the EU on your daily life?

Emilie: After this interview... I would say a lot! I guess I just don�t realise it yet�.