The Gov2U initiative “ucount4eu” is trying to bring awareness to the citizens of the EU at this historic time of global political and financial crisis while uncertainties such as the Lisbon Treaty question the central role of our European Parliament and government. Consistent with our historical heritage as the birthplace of democracy, Gov2U has launched a number of innovative e-democracy projects throughout Europe and the Americas utilizing ICT and new innovative technologies to give citizens new ways to participate in decisions about the key issues facing Europe today. At the site www.ucount4eu.eu people can become informed about all aspects of the EU Parliamentary elections, share their ideas and opinions; and make suggestions about the EU and our future.

Rationale for the initiative

ucount4eu will harness the power of the Internet to provide a) citizens with a choice to select their European leadership more democratically by participating more actively in the process; and b) more direct access to the leaders who are making decisions that impact our daily lives.  The Internet and other new communications technologies are radically changing the world. In every aspect of our lives - from commerce to entertainment to education to government - new technologies are opening up exciting new possibilities. We must all be constantly searching for new ways to apply these technologies to resolve old problems. Governments have too often been slow to see possibilities and opportunities of reinforcing and reinvigorating democratic practice. Too often, we have not been willing to take chances and aggressively search for new solutions to engage all citizens in the political process.

Main objectives of the project

The main goal of this project is to structure a more accountable, representative EU parliamentary body by raising the awareness of citizens about an MEP’s functions and major role in our daily lives. Our objectives are:

1. Increase voter interest and turnout through awareness and direct involvement on issues of concern;
2. Provide 5 citizen driven proposals to the newly elected Parliament with at least 1 million signatures each.