European policy, its perception by citizens, relations between elected representatives and citizens are profoundly affected by the development of the Internet and social networks.
The European Parliament, meeting today in plenary session in Strasbourg, has addressed this challenge of e-democracy by advocating, through the adoption of an own-initiative report, that the political sphere should better use new technologies to create a more direct and participatory link with civil society.
Sylvie GOULARD, ALDE spokesperson on this issue, a member of the parliamentary committee of Constitutional affairs, said:
„This report comprehensively analyses the potential linked to the different tools embodied by e-democracy. Citizens rightfully expect to be informed about decisions taken which affect them. Technology must be harnessed at all levels by using ICT tools to disseminate information and undertake e-consultations and to secure electronic voting which will accompany traditional democratic tools. E-democracy has a key role to play in increasing transparency and the accountability of decision makers at all levels.”
