Responsibility and solidarity

The forthcoming European elections represent an important appointment for Europe. It’s a question of supporting the intention of the founding fathers of Europe so as to ensure a solid future of peace, solidarity and justice. It’s an important appointment for the whole world, because Europe must offer a model of development for man and with man, in a context in which our societies are weakened, subjected to cultural, economic and military relations of force. At a time of fundamentalism and terrorism, we have the duty to forge links that are not exclusively based on economic competition. Abstaining from voting meaning giving priority to individualism rather than to justice and brotherhood. Exercising the right to vote for the social representatives of the dignity of man and of peace means, on the other hand, giving proof of solidarity and responsibility. “Justice and Peace in Europe” must bear witness to these values that will ensure a human future for the generations to come.Gérard DefoisBishop and President OF “Justice and Peace in Europe” The European Parliament is one of the main institutions of the European Union and the one that directly involves European citizens through the deputies elected by direct universal suffrage. The European Parliament, in its role of co-legislator, has budgetary powers and guarantees the democratic control of the other institutions of the European Union. The nature itself of the Parliament confers on its own members the legitimation and duty to represent the interests of their own constituency and all citizens of the member states as a whole. This legitimation is based on the moral duty of all citizens to participate in these elections, exercising their own right to vote, once they have informed themselves of the electoral proposals and programmes of the various parties and the various candidates. Together, electors and candidates must seek to exercise their own rights and duties with means that conduce to freedom, justice and solidarity.Electors are called to verify that the proposals of the political groups and candidates conform to these values. Candidates, for their part, are expected to give proof of honesty and integrity, given that they work for the common good. In response to the opportunities and challenges of globalization, the consideration of the common good plays a crucial role in ensuring that Europe may achieve its own strategic objectives in all sectors, while recognizing the principles of sustainability.Faithful to its own fundamental values, the European Union must strive to balance economic growth and development, and make its priority the exercise of solidarity with those who are more vulnerable, who find themselves having to cope with great difficulties and who are most exposed to exploitation and discrimination. This role is even more crucial in present-day circumstances, in which Europe is faced by a real economic challenge. The European Parliament also occupies a strategic position to promote and monitor the implementation of initiatives and programmes aimed at fostering mutual understanding, dialogue, peace and stability.Conference of European Commisssions “Justice and Peace”