About European Citizenship
A Definition of citizenship
Citizenship is a massively contested term. One of the most influential definitions of citizenship however, is that of T.H. Marshall, who envisages citizenship as involving three elements, civil, political and social. The civil element is composed of the rights necessary for individual freedom. The political element involves the right to participate in the exercise of political power. And the social element involves the range of rights to welfare, security and to live the life of a civilised being according to the standards prevailing in the society. (Adapted from T.H. Marshall’s Citizenship and Social Class)
Citizenship in schools
Citizenship education gives pupils the knowledge, skills and understanding to play an effective role in society at local, national and international levels. It helps them to become informed, thoughtful and responsible citizens who are aware of their rights and, subsequently, conscious of their duties. We want citizenship education to promote spiritual, moral, social and cultural development, making students more self-confident and responsible both in and beyond the classroom. It helps pupils to play a part in the life of their schools, neighbourhoods, communities and the wider world. It also encourages learning about the economy democratic institutions and values; different national, religious and ethnic identities; and the developoment of students’ abilities to reflect on issues and take part in discussions. (The National Curriculum for England)
A European dimension to citizenship
EU citizenship gives citizens of EU member states the right to:
- Move and reside freely within the territory of the EU Member States.
Vote and stand as a candidate at municipal
elections in the Member States in which they are residents, even those who
live in Member States other than their own.
- Petition the European Parliament and apply to an ombudsman with complaints about maladministration in the activities between the citizens and the European institutions.
- Be protected in third countries where their own country is not represented. There they are entitled to protection by the diplomatic or consular authorities of any EU Member State, on the same conditions as the nationals of other Member States.
Citizenship is often likened with identity. People living in Europe, whether inside or outside the EU, might describe themselves as Europeans. There is, however, no clear picture of what the identity of a European citizen is. Given the cultural, ethnic and linguistic variety of Europe, any attempt to define European citizenship needs to include the notion of diversity. Speak Out! on European citizenship encourages an open discussion around the meaning of European citizenship, and how active citizenship can be practiced at a local, regional, national and European level.
This website is endorsed by De@fchild International
Speak Out! is supported by the UK Office of the European Parliament