JEF Finland wants to highlight the importance of democracy and the rule of law in the European Union. These have always been among the EU’s core values, but they have been challenged by some member states as well as external actors.
“Democracy and the rule of law have always been absolute cornerstones of European integration. There is no room to compromise on upholding them without endangering the legitimacy of the entire EU”, reminds JEF Finland President Iiris Asunmaa.
The Union’s core values feature prominently in JEF Finland’s government programme objectives. They also propose clear means of strengthening the European rule of law and democracy.
“EU cohesion funding must be tied to compliance with the rule of law. The Union must be given the capacity to develop joint cybersecurity to protect against information influence operations. The transparency of European political party funding must also be advanced, and the Union must be supported in its efforts to counter attempts at influence by foreign powers”, states Asunmaa.
The upcoming European elections offer Europeans an opportunity to defend democracy and the rule of law. However, the EU’s member states must also do their part to fix the problems. JEF Finland expects action from the incoming government as well.
“Finland needs a strong European Union that stands firmly on its values, which is why defending democracy and the rule of law is essential. This must be firmly remembered in the government formation talks too”, demands Asunmaa.
Read JEF Finland’s government programme objectives here
For more information:
Iiris Asunmaa
President
JEF Finland
050 918 7390