This is the second EPP/HDZ MEPs office opened in the last month after the one in Varaždin. The citizens of East Croatia may come to the Office to get detailed information about the EU projects and activities and about the work of the EU institutions.
MEP Zovko stressed that it was important for the young people in Osijek to get informed about the possibilities offered by the European Union.
“We want the young people to be aware that our door is always open for them. We are bringing Europe to Osijek, because it is the young people who will be representing us here. We want to be sure that the young people will always have direct access to all information they might need, especially about the EU funds they will need to enable them to stay here.“ – as of Zovko.
“Members of the European Parliament have always been available to the Croatian citizens. The main purpose of our local offices is to present our work and the EU institutions in more details to the citizens. The citizens of the Osijek-Baranja County may be assured that our Office shall always be at their disposal. That is where they may get all necessary information.” – said MEP Šuica and added that this was a step forward in bringing the EP closer to Slavonia.
Notwithstanding the efforts, the citizens’ interest in EU policy remains at a low level, proved also by a low turnout of voters at the elections in 2013 (21%) and 2014 (cca. 25%).
“Considering that Croatia is a full EU-member with all powers, rights and obligations, we would like to increase the turnout of voters at the European elections. We would like the citizens to realize how important that is. It is also very important to use all the opportunities offered by the EU, what unfortunately has not been the case so far. Out citizens have not been well informed and perhaps we are to be blamed to some extent.” –as of Šuica.
“Our wish is to bring Europe close to common people and entrepreneurs to win as many benefits as possible.” – said MEP Tolić.
The opening-ceremony was attended by the member of the Croatian Parliament and candidate for the prefect of the Osijek-Baranja County, Ivan Anušić and candidate for the mayor of Osijek, Ivana Šojat. MEPs used this opportunity to support their candidatures.