For Conscious Choice

"For Conscious Choice" is a pilot programme strengthening participatory democracy in Told (East-Hungary), where community development has created a strong local community in recent years which is a good starting point to build on. The initiative will provide people facing social exclusion with knowledge to make better-informed decisions and become more informed citizens. Participants learn interactively about the history of the European Union, its main laws and institutions, the functioning of the Hungarian state and its electoral system. Activities include a local campaign and community day, where delegates put their theoretical knowledge into practice by organising a model election with candidates, election promises and voting, while invited experts give presentations on a range of topics. The programme additionally aims at reaching out to local people who live in the village and have an influence on their community and local public opinion. Through authentic presentations of complex issues, participants can practice a culture of acceptance based on understanding rather than blame. The initiative aims to increase turnout in the upcoming local and European elections, as well as in future voting, and to empower the community in Told to make free, uninfluenced and informed decisions on public issues.