Later this month, it will become clear whether Poles are capable not only of drawing conclusions from the experiences of the past, but also of effectively taking advantage of the opportunity that has arisen—in this case, the upcoming 2014 European Parliament elections, in which, according to preliminary polls, 37% of the public declares that it will participate. This is a significant improvement compared with elections in previous years; however, turnout is only one side of the coin. The question also remains whether we will be able to choose our representatives in the European Parliament wisely and well. This choice is all the more important because, with the provisions of the Treaty of Lisbon entering into force in 2010, the EP is to have significantly broader powers during this term and a greater influence on European Union policy in general.
Every Vote Counts
Given the view, fairly popular among Poles, that “there is no point in voting, since it will not change anything anyway,” it is difficult to expect crowds of voters to head to the polling stations. It is worth abandoning this nihilistic attitude and casting an important vote nevertheless, because this is the only way that we, as a society, can influence the fate of our country—the 2014 European Parliament elections are another opportunity for Poland to establish itself as a significant political force in the EP. After all, we have 51 parliamentary seats, which is truly a considerable number and will become all the more important the more solidly and jointly our representation in the European Parliament acts. For this reason, it should not include random people or individuals chosen on a whim: Poland’s position in the Union and our security will depend on them. It is therefore worth voting for those who have already proven themselves in similar situations and have experience in pursuing effective policies whose overriding goal is to improve the situation in our Homeland.
Wisdom, Moderation and Common Sense
Platforma Obywatelska, currently at the helm of government and also leading the pre-election rankings, will most likely receive 19 or 20 seats, so one can be certain that these positions will be filled by excellent professionals whose primary concern is the well-being of Poland and Poles. However, quite a substantial number of seats remain for which there is no such certainty—and this is precisely where our responsibility comes in. Let us not be deceived by pseudo-patriotic circles calling for isolationism; instead, let us choose openness toward the West while maintaining dialogue with our neighbours. Let us show that we can make wise decisions based on common sense, and our nation will certainly benefit from it.
(iza)