Juncker must show citizens that the EU can improve their lives

The Greens/EFA group will call on President Juncker to be much bolder in meeting the needs of European citizens in their response to his annual State of the Union address.

Ahead of the debate, Greens/EFA co-president Philippe Lamberts calls on President Juncker to prove that the EU can respond to citizens’ needs:

"It will take a lot for Juncker to convince the people of Europe that he is genuinely ready to tackle their problems. For far too long, the people of Europe have suffered the consequences of crises that were not of their making, while big corporations and the rich have prospered. From toxic air quality to financial insecurity, the European Union has failed to prove how it can add value to their lives."

Philippe Lamberts also set out the Greens/EFA group’s own ideas for the future of Europe:

"Just because the likes of Wilders and Le Pen have failed to win majorities doesn’t mean that Europe can continue with business as usual. We need a new direction, with an urgent focus on reducing inequality and our ecological impact so that all Europeans – including future generations – can enjoy the possibility of a dignified life. The best way to build our future together is for the European Union to become a global leader in the transition towards just and sustainable societies.”