European Elections 2024: Major Shifts, New Voting Rights, and Consumer Changes

European Elections 2024: Key Facts and Changes to Watch

From June 6 to 9, more than 360 million voters across 450 million Europeans are set to cast their votes for 720 Members of the European Parliament (MEPs). This election comes in the context of significant transformations for the EU and its Member States. France, for example, will see an increase in its MEP seats from 79 to 81, reflecting broader shifts within the EU parliamentary structure.

The European budget, primarily funded by Member States, has always been a hot topic. Countries in Western and Northern Europe are generally 'net contributors', paying more into the budget than they receive, while Eastern and Southern countries are 'net beneficiaries', receiving more than they contribute. This dynamic plays a crucial role in the political landscape, influencing debates and voter sentiments.

Election authorities expect a higher voter turnout this year, driven by an increasingly turbulent international context and heightened political engagement. The newly introduced feature allowing 16 and 17-year-olds to vote has boosted the eligible voter count from 61.5 million in 2019 to around 65 million. This change aims to encourage younger generations to engage in shaping the future of the European Union.