The EU plays a major role in climate efforts on the continent, for example through the European Green Deal (EGD), and sets climate goals and directions for EU member states. While previous research shows that it is crucial to gain public support for sustainable policies and legislation, it remains difficult to effectively involve citizens in this process.
Citizen consultations
In a new study published in Environmental Innovation and Sustainability Transitions, Gudek (Athena Institute) and his colleagues analysed the transcripts of 27 recent Europe-wide citizen consultations, in which citizens and experts were informed about the European Green Deal (sustainable mobility, energy efficiency and sustainable food systems). They also interviewed experts and monitored the development of roadmaps with different ways to achieve the Green Deal goals. This allowed them to see how the input of citizens and experts was implemented at the supranational level, and what challenges appear in this process.
According to Gudek, it is more difficult for the EU to involve citizens and experts than for national governments. For example, citizens from all over Europe sometimes have different values, making it difficult to align a common vision for the future. In addition, the type of policy that the EU is allowed to make is strictly determined by its member states. Gudek: ‘If citizens are not effectively involved, this can lead to a loss of legitimacy and a perception of “Brussels” acting against public interests, making the EU a scapegoat for national politics.’
Citizens and experts as makers and implementers
According to Gudek, the EU should work on making citizens and experts the creators and implementers of European sustainability efforts. Strengthening the relationship between the EU and different stakeholders – for example research organisations such as VU Amsterdam, advocacy groups, experts and citizens – is crucial. Gudek: ‘Our research suggests that if they succeed, the EU will be empowered to pursue more ambitious sustainability measures – measures that directly involve citizens in designing and implementing solutions.’