European citizens and the media: does communication enhance participation? Conference report, Berlin, 7 May 2014

Abstract

80 experts discussed the role of media in regard to the participation of EU citizens in European debates. Throughout Europe, EU citizens are not regarded as strong supporters of European institutions. In academic and in political discussions it is argued that there is a lack of interest in European affairs, a lack of knowledge about the European Union and a very low level of participation in debates on European issues and in European elections. How could this lack of interest be turned around? How could the mass media and political institutions motivate the citizens of Europe to intensify their involvement in public discussions on European issues?