Daily Reports
Gabriel Attal, the French Prime Minister, has launched a quirky yet impactful campaign aimed at encouraging young people to vote in the upcoming European elections. In a social media video posted on Instagram, Attal draws attention to how the European Union influences everyday items that young people are familiar with, namely condoms, Nintendo Switch consoles, and USB-C chargers.
Wearing a suit and tie, Attal presents each item in turn, emphasizing how European regulations ensure their quality and functionality. 'It is Europe that ensures that the condoms you buy comply with all the requirements in terms of resistance and safety, thanks to this small logo, CE marking,' he explains. Furthermore, he mentions that it was European regulations that forced Nintendo to replace faulty Switch joysticks for free, even past the warranty period. In addition, from next December, all phone manufacturers will be required to use universal chargers due to EU legislation.
The Prime Minister goes on to highlight other tangible benefits provided by the European Union, such as the Erasmus program for students and apprentices, data privacy protection, and climate action initiatives. He also points out that a unified Europe allows the continent to stand strong against superpowers like the United States and China.
Despite these benefits, current statistics are not in favor of the majority list. According to an Ipsos survey conducted among 11,430 people from May 27 to 30, only 6% of 18-24 year-olds intend to vote for the Macronist list. The leading list of the National Rally holds 32% of votes, while the Socialist Party sits at 13.5%.
Gabriel Attal warns that this Europe is in danger, as for the first time in history, the extreme right could gain a blocking minority in the European Parliament. He urges young voters to support Valérie Hayer's 'Need for Europe' list, which includes proposals like a Rail Pass, a European Culture Pass, collaboration on a cancer vaccine, and a unified European defense system.
With just days remaining before the election, Attal hopes his appeal will resonate with young voters and bolster support for a pro-European future.
- France faces a crucial moment as European elections approach, with Gabriel Attal making an unusual yet creative effort to rally young voters. His campaign is a reminder of the ways European Union regulations touch the lives of citizens in practical, everyday scenarios.
- From ensuring safety standards in condoms to mandating universal phone chargers, the EU's influence is shown to be far-reaching. This emphasis on tangible benefits is aimed at countering a trend of political disengagement among young voters, who appear to swing between protest and abstention.
- As Britain continues to grapple with the ramifications of Brexit, the importance of staying engaged with the European project has never been clearer. Attal's examples serve to remind voters that decisions made at the European level have real-world implications, reinforcing the need for informed participation in the upcoming elections.
