The European Green Party has recently announced the opening of the call for top candidates, also known as “Spitzenkandidaten,” for the 2024 European Union (EU) elections. These leading candidates will represent the core of their political family, serving as the face and voice of the party during campaign debates and events leading up to the elections, scheduled for 6th-9th June 2024.
Transparency and Fairness in Candidate Selection
In a bid to promote transparency and open political discussion, the European Green Party will elect two frontrunners through an Electoral Congress in Lyon, to be held from 2nd to 4th February 2024. This democratic process will involve delegates from various Green parties across Europe, ensuring a fair and representative selection.
Thomas Waitz and Mélanie Vogel, co-chairs of the European Green Party, emphasize the importance of avoiding backroom deals and undisclosed arrangements in candidate appointments, as witnessed in 2019 with the Commission presidency appointment of Ursula von der Leyen. By selecting nominated candidates as potential key positions, including the Commission presidency, the European Green Party aims to uphold transparency and accountability within the election process.
Nomination and Endorsement Process
All member parties of the European Green Party and the Federation of Young European Greens have the opportunity to nominate a contender for the top candidates’ position by no later than 28th November. Subsequently, on 2nd and 3rd December 2023, all contenders will introduce themselves to representatives at the online EGP Congress. To showcase the transnational nature of the European elections, contenders must acquire explicit backing from at least five additional EGP member parties to become eligible by 7th January 2024.
Gender Balance and Diversity
In line with EGP election rules, at least one of the two elected leading candidates must be female. Moreover, to foster diversity and representation, the contenders cannot both originate from the same country. This commitment reaffirms the European Greens’ dedication to equal representation and inclusion within the political landscape.
Encouraging Other Political Parties to Follow Suit
While the European Green Party takes pride in its transparent and inclusive candidate selection process, it also urges other European political parties to adopt similar measures for their own campaigns. By embracing the lead candidate process, parties can foster concrete political discussions and ensure that the chosen candidates genuinely represent their respective parties. This approach also seeks to avoid behind-the-scenes arrangements that may compromise the democratic integrity of the election process.
A Green Vision for Europe
Despite the recent rise of right-wing and far-right parties in Europe, the Green movement has celebrated significant victories. The European Greens achieved a political triumph in the European Parliament with the Nature Restoration Law. Additionally, Green parties in Spain and Poland played pivotal roles in preventing the establishment of far-right governments. Moreover, new parties, such as VESNA from Slovenia, PAN and LIVRE from Portugal, and Párbeszéd from Hungary, have joined the European Green Party, expanding its influence and reach across the continent.
Looking Ahead
As the European Green Party prepares for the Electoral Congress in Lyon in February 2024, where the leading candidates will be elected, the focus remains on promoting a progressive, sustainable, and united Europe. The Congress will also determine the approval of the EGP Manifesto and Priorities, setting the stage for a vibrant and impactful campaign towards the EU elections.
The European Green Party’s call for top candidates in the 2024 EU elections reflects its commitment to transparency, fairness, and inclusive representation. By championing these principles, the party strives to ensure a democratic and open process that resonates with the aspirations and concerns of European citizens. As Europe faces challenges and uncertainties, the European Green Party stands ready to lead with its progressive vision for a sustainable and united future.
Market Capital Research 