European Commission (Portugal)

The arrival of a new year always involves reflections, reformulations and new projects. This is also what is expected for the European Union (EU) in 2019.

Last year's balance sheet shows important achievements: examples are proposals to strengthen the EU budget in programs such as Erasmus + and a new European civil protection mechanism - the rescEU. However, 2018 is also marked by some concussions. Brexit is a well-known challenge that will continue to make you talk. And the growth of misinformation and the danger it poses to our democracies is another obstacle that we must overcome.

The year changes, but there are always themes that remain, and these two are good samples. But at the same time, there is always something new. In 2019, the biggest event in the EU will undoubtedly be the European elections, which will take place in Portugal on 26 May.

And for this upcoming event, it is crucial that we take into account the teachings of last year. It is essential to ensure that the May elections are not affected by misinformation, fake news and electoral manipulation. It is our duty as Europeans to ensure that we exercise a free, informed and thoughtful vote.

In recent times, we have been able together to promote the debate on the EU and its future. The year 2019 represents the goal of this discussion. So let's keep the values of respect and unity that are characteristic of us. We will promote a responsible choice for our Europe. Let's go to 2019. Let's go to the decisions!