European Elections 2024: What You Need to Know
Starting this Thursday, 361 million EU citizens can cast their votes for a new European Parliament, setting the stage for EU policies over the next five years. With elections spanning four days due to varying dates in individual member states, Germany will hold its election on June 9. Polling stations in Germany open at 8 am and close at 6 pm, with provisions for those in line at closing time to vote. Eligible voters in Germany include residents aged 16 or older holding EU citizenship, with specific criteria for non-German EU residents. Those residing outside Germany can find voting procedures on the Federal Returning Officer website. The European Parliament, consisting of 720 representatives from member states, plays a pivotal role in EU legislative processes, including budget decisions and oversight of European institutions. The current MEP composition includes members from various political groups, with a total of 96 German MEPs. In the upcoming 2024 European elections, 35 parties are vying for representation. To be elected as an MEP, individuals must be at least 18 years old, German or EU citizens permanently residing in Germany. Noteworthy lead candidates of German parties include Ursula von der Leyen (CDU), Manfred Weber (CSU), Katarina Barley (SPD), Terry Reintke (Greens), Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann (FDP), Maximilian Krah (AfD), Martin Schirdewan and Carola Rackete (Left), and Fabio De Masi and Thomas Geisel (BSW). Stay updated on the latest survey results for the European elections.
Related Sources: