Page 34 - Demo

The concept aims to develop strong feelings of identity beyond the nation-statelevel, supporting cultures and local, regional, and national identities beneaththis level (Delanty, 2007; Jamienson, 2002). A question arises about thecomplementary or contradictory nature of these objectives. Regarding theobjectives of introducing this concept, debates have also been extensive. It isconsidered to reflect a broader aspiration to promote more direct andsubstantial relationships between the EU and European peoples than in thepast, and less mediated by Member States. This can enhance the effectivenessand efficiency of the EU and increase its political legitimacy. EuropeanCitizenship was introduced to counter perceptions of elitism and to bringEurope %u201ccloser to the citizen%u201d (Shore, 2004). Citizenship is perceived as universalbecause it applies to everyone and transcends particularity and difference.However, this universal character is challenging to implement, as certain rightsare specific to certain groups. For instance, freedom of movement for EUcitizens is seen to be achieved at the expense of increasing discriminationagainst non-EU citizens. European citizenship can become an instrument ofexclusion. One thing is clear, though: the introduction of the concept of Europeancitizenship is a significant achievement that cannot be underestimated. Effortsto operationalise this concept must be supported, as individuals are notimmediate bearers of EU citizenship, sharing a common identity, a commonresponsibility, and the %u201centhusiasm and anticipation of future common effort%u201d(Lehning, 2001).n 1. 2. 4. Operationalising the conceptActions promoted within the EU must aim to cultivate positive attitudes towardsEuropean citizenship and the status conferred to the individual by Europeancitizenship. The prioritisation of the expanded concept of active Europeancitizenship is evident in the EU%u2019s youth strategies %u2013 key objectives includeencouraging young people to actively participate in society (EU Youth Strategy2010%u20132018), and fostering the development of citizenship competencies throughcitizenship education and learning strategies (EU Youth Strategy 2019%u20132027).The main pillars of operationalising these objectives can be summarised (Fig.1.2.4) as: ethics (adherence to the fundamental values of the EU, attitudetowards diversity/the variety of national cultures); innovation (orientation tofrugality); and entrepreneurship (entrepreneurial spirit, social responsibility, civicengagement) (Necul%u0103esei et al., 2012). 341 Citizen Commitment