An identity crisis in the European Parliament
The European Parliament has been criticized for its lack of representation of the ethnic diversity of the EU population. According to the activists, this situation has caused an identity crisis in the institution (https://www.softcatala.org/resum-de-textos-en-catala/). A study carried out by the European Network Against Racism found that only 4.3% of MEPs belonged to ethnic minorities during the last term of parliament. This proportion is much lower than the estimated 10% of the EU population who identify as part of an ethnic minority (https://www.softcatala.org/resum-de-textos-en-catala/).
The gap has widened with Brexit
The departure of UK MEPs due to Brexit has further exacerbated the gap in ethnic representation in the European Parliament. After Brexit, only 3.5% of MEPs were from ethnic minorities, representing just 25 out of 705 MEPs. This situation has caused concern and highlighted the need to improve ethnic representation in this institution.
The lack of representation and its consequences
Activists point out that the lack of representation of ethnic minorities in the European Parliament has negative consequences. People with experiences of racism and inequality often do not have a voice in important European discussions, which makes it difficult to adopt policies that address their needs (https://www.softcatala.org/resum-de-textos-en -Catalan/). This disparity raises questions about the democratic legitimacy of the institutions, including the European Parliament.
The challenge of the extreme right
With support for far-right and nationalist parties rising in European elections, campaigners fear the representation of marginalized communities will further decline. The data collected shows that there is a big difference between left and center parties, which have made efforts to include candidates from ethnic minorities on their lists, and right-wing parties, where ethnic representation is low or even all void It is important that ethnic representation goes beyond simple superficial and symbolic inclusion, and that real and meaningful representation is sought to achieve a more equal Europe.
The importance of diversity and political representation
Activists highlight the importance of diversity and political representation in tackling racism and inequality. It is necessary that the voices of ethnic minorities are heard and play an active role in political decision-making (https://www.softcatala.org/resum-de-textos-en-catala/). Representation alone is not enough, it must be meaningful and have a real impact in the fight against racism.