A Questionnaire for Candidates for the European Parliament

Pavlakis

I’m Christoforos, an expat Greek in his late twenties who tries to make the most out of his nomadic life. With background in media and communications, I experience the daily struggle to find accurate information and stay open to new theories that might convince me to re-consider.

My friends suggest I am lucky this time because as a Greek expat living outside of the EU I am not entitled to vote in the European elections and do not have to worry about the candidates.

Indeed, this fuss about Euro- parliamentary candidacies in Greece is the latest by-product of a crumbling political establishment.
Even with a background in media and communications, I share the feel of confusion with many of my compatriots.  I put myself in the shoes of the Greek “data” voter – so many info graphics, stats, figures – by adding a critical questionnaire for those who want my cross on the ballot paper. (Note that the Greek electoral system changed to enable voters choosing from an open party list, hence, personality of the candidate matters.)

This is my list for the candidates:

  • How many languages do you speak? In what languages can you communicate effectively and eventually negotiate?
  • What is your background? How many years have you worked in the public/private sector? In what committee would you sit if elected?
  • Depending on the answer to the previous question, what do you stand for in crucial questions concerning economy, environment, employment etc.?  What are your priorities?”
  • What best practices are you aware of to be replicated in our country to tackle problems in these areas? Give details on how to implement them.
  • How do you envisage the different levels of governance (local, regional, national and European) and how will you collaborate with your counterparts? List any experience, if appropriate.

Of course, this is not an exhaustive list but it gives a glimpse of an engaging conversation with the candidate. Who said that deciding whom to vote for was an easy task? Buy a notebook and compare answers: whoever scores best is the most suitable for the job!

Let’s set the tone of the debate this time and push candidates to clear answers and commitments! Because this time it’s different.


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