ReindeR Rustema
Jul 27, 2017 · 1 min read

Unfortunately, this instrument does not really work as intended. It is way too bureaucratic, citizens do not have the patience for that. But it is understandable that member states want a high threshold because it might in theory have real consequences. My proposal is to put the threshold not at the participatory level of citizens. Signing with just your name (or a pseudonym) and a working e-mail address should be enough. Once the proposal is discussed the summary of that discussion can be e-mailed to all participating citizens. In most cases citizens cannot get want they asked for, but the e-mail should give enough insight in how (EU) democracy works and how to proceed to get what you want (change public opinion or organise a lobby for example). If you also want to improve this instrument, a good starting point is http://www.citizens-initiative.eu/can-help-save-eci-now/

    ReindeR Rustema

    Written by

    Founder of Dutch petitioning website petities.nl since 2005.