Encouraging Participation: Council Ready to Launch Talks on a Revised European Citizens' Initiative

The Council is ready to launch talks with the Parliament to make the European Citizens' Initiative more user-friendly and increase its impact. 

On 26 June 2018, the Council agreed its position on a proposal for a new regulation which includes a number of changes which will improve the Initiative and encourage participation.

The Council's position will serve as a mandate for the Austrian presidency to enter negotiations with the European Parliament, once the Parliament has agreed its negotiating stance.

"Citizens must be able to make their voice heard and draw the attention of EU decision-makers to matters close to their heart. The European Citizens' Initiative offers everyone the opportunity to make a difference. Member states are determined to ensure that this important tool is both simple to use and effective."

Ekaterina Zaharieva, deputy prime minister for judicial reform and minister for foreign affairs of Bulgaria