On June at EUDEBATES: Transparency
The concept of transparency assumes that in a democracy there should be nothing to hide from the citizens. Any departure from this rule should be an exception and must be justified by political representatives. The idea behind this is that a transparent political system is less likely to be arbitrary or corrupt since it can be checked by the people at any time - so far the theory. In practice transparency in the European Union is the exception rather than the rule: 20.000 lobyists mingle with thousands of unelected civil servants who initiate law in secret meetings and are in no way accountable to the citizens. There is a mountain of regulation and an incomprehensible division of competences between the member states and the EU, neglecting all rules of separated powers. In addition there is biased information about the EU published by the EU Commission and most media coverage on Brussels is non-critical. How can this situation be improved? Which reforms are needed to make the EU more transparent? Where are the limits of transparency? We want to discuss these questions with you and our specialists! Jens-Peter Bonde MEP (JuniBevaegelsen), Paul de Clerck (Friends of the Earth Europe / Alter - EU), Bruno Waterfield (Daily Telegraph) and Rune Rasmussen (Transparency International) all participated in the events on the 12th of June, 2007. Here are some pictures...
If you have any question concerning the EUDebates, contact Geraud at geraud@eudemocrats.org
Here you can see the venue. The debate took place on the upper floor whereas food and drinks where served on the lower one.
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Meet our speakers. From left to right, Bruno Waterfield, Rune Rasmussen, Jens Peter Bonde, Thomas Rupp and Paul de Clerck.
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Around forty people gathered for this event. As you can see, the audience showed great interest in the topic.
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After the debate, the participants were still debating and socialising around a buffet froid.
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Then, the participants enjoyed a drink in the warmth of a hot summer evening in Brussels.
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EUDebates - What is it?
EUDEBATES is a series of monthly debates on topics surrounding urgently needed EU reform. We invite experts to present their views after which the floor is open for lively debate. EUDEBATES takes place in an informal and relaxed environment. We want to provide a space for an exchange of ideas among open-minded people who have differing opinions on the topics, and we hope for an enriching experience that deepens understanding. Following the debate, you can take the opportunity to meet new people and enjoy a drink or two.
