Czech Republic to Elect 21 Representatives to the European Parliament on June 7-8, 2024

Czech citizens are preparing to vote in the European Parliament elections on June 7-8, 2024. A total of 21 representatives will be elected to represent the Czech Republic in the European Parliament.

The election of 21 representatives to the European Parliament will have a significant impact on the Czech Republic's role in the EU and its ability to shape EU policies. The outcome of the election will influence the country's stance on key issues, including the European Green Deal, and may have consequences for the EU's overall direction.

The election will use a semi-open list proportional representation system in a single nationwide constituency. Seats will be allocated using the D'Hondt method, with a 5% electoral threshold for both single parties and coalitions of two or more parties.

Eligible voters include Czech and EU citizens who have permanent or temporary residence in the Czech Republic at least 45 days prior to the elections. Voters must be at least 18 years old by the second election day. Non-Czech EU citizens residing in the Czech Republic are required to register to vote, while Czech citizens are automatically registered in their place of residence.

The previous European Parliament election in the Czech Republic was held on May 24-25, 2019, with a voter turnout of 28.72%. This year, turnout is expected to be higher, with an OGM poll for the 'Kurier' newspaper indicating that 66% of surveyed individuals are 'certain' to vote.

Several political parties and coalitions have announced their candidatures for the upcoming elections. These include the Civic Democratic Party (ODS), KDU-ČSL, TOP 09, the Czech Pirate Party, ANO 2011, Mayors and Independents (STAN), Nespokojení (Dissatisfied) movement, Volt, and SEN21. Notable candidates include Petr Fiala of ODS, Tomáš Zdechovský of KDU-ČSL, and Mikuláš Peksa of the Czech Pirate Party.

The official campaign began on January 26, 2024, when Czech President Petr Pavel announced the election date. From that point, no party or coalition is allowed to spend more than 50 million crowns on campaign promotion. They must also create a transparent bank account within five days of the campaign start date.

ANO 2011 began its campaign in Zlín, focusing on priorities such as Czech sovereignty, European self-reliance, and reducing the scope of the European Green Deal. Other parties have also outlined their campaign platforms, aiming to address various national and European issues.

The European Parliament election is a significant event for the Czech Republic and the European Union as a whole. The elected representatives will play a vital role in shaping EU policies and legislation over the next five years.

Key Takeaways

• Czech citizens to elect 21 reps to European Parliament on June 7-8, 2024.
• Election to impact Czech Republic's role in EU and EU policies.
• Semi-open list proportional representation system with 5% electoral threshold.
• 66% of surveyed individuals expected to vote, higher than 2019's 28.72%.
• Several parties and coalitions announced candidatures, including ODS and Czech Pirate Party.