European Elections 2024: the moment of truth for Europe?

The 2024 European Elections mark a moment of truth for the continent and the composition of its Parliament will strongly determine the future of the European Union. Although younger generations will live with any potential changes for a longer time, research shows that they vote in lower numbers and only decide what to vote for in the hours and days before the Elections. Having this in mind, Palumba EU will introduce for the first time its innovative mobile app to increase well-informed youth turnout in the elections in an event where young Europeans will take center stage. The first part of the event will include an open Q&A session with Jaume Duch, spokesperson of the European Parliament and Director General of Communication, the pitch presentation of the Palumba app, as well as a round table with Carme Colomina (CIDOB) and young activists and political scientists. Lastly, an informal “Drinks for Democracy” will follow with young participants.

The programme will be in Catalan, except for the 10-minute app presentation, which will be delivered in English. The event will be broadcasted live at ateneubcn.cat/endirecte.

PROGRAMME:

17:45 – 18:00 – Welcome address

• Maria Eugènia Gay, Deputy Mayor of the Barcelona City Council

• Alexander Heichlinger, representative of the European Capital of Democracy

• Isona Passola, President of Ateneu Barcelonès

18:00 – 18:45 – European Elections 2024: the moment of truth for Europe

Initial presentation on the exceptional relevance of EE24 followed by an open Q&A session favouring the exchange with young attendees present.

• Jaume Duch, General Director of Communications at the European Parliament

18:45 – 18:55 – Introducing Palumba, the app to engage young Europeans

Presentation of the Palumba app and its behind-the-scenes story.

• Pol Villaverde, President of the Palumba EU Youth Association

18:55 – 19:45 – Round Table: “How will younger generations vote and engage in the future?”

Discussion on youth electoral behaviour, priorities and the future of democracy in Europe

• Carme Colomina, Journalist and senior researcher at CIDOB

• Maria Serra, Influencer and climate activist

• Cèlia Estruch, researcher and member at Ateneu Barcelonès (moderator)

19:45 – 20:45 – Drinks for democracy: “Beyond the civic bubble: challenges and opportunities”

Informal talk and early hands-on of the app, exclusive for 18-30 year-olds.