Eminent economist and former presidential candidate, Danuše Nerudová, has revealed her intention to contest the upcoming European Parliament elections next year. She will be spearheading the campaign as the leader of the STAN movement, joined by deputy chairman Jan Farský.

Nerudová’s strategic negotiations with several political factions over recent weeks have culminated in her decision to unite forces under the STAN banner, focusing on driving crucial reforms, enhancing quality of life, and ensuring equitable opportunities irrespective of background. Key shared priorities with the STAN movement, such as environmental preservation, rural area support, and universal rights, have reinforced Nerudová’s alignment with the movement.

“I perceive the European Union as the most successful joint project on our continent since World War II, but I also realize that the European Union and its institutions need reforms,” Nerudová asserted. She envisions a comprehensive European program designed to propel both Czechia and the Union toward a more progressive future.

The announcement has been greeted with enthusiasm within the STAN movement. Vít Rakušan, the head of the movement, expressed their appreciation for Nerudová’s choice to consolidate the liberal, pro-European democratic forces rather than splintering them through the establishment of a new party. Rakušan emphasized the potential of Nerudová to serve as a unifying figure and a strong advocate for Europe.

The European Parliament elections are slated for the upcoming spring. The STAN candidate slate for the elections will bear the name “Starostové a osobnosti pro Evropu” (Mayors and Personalities for Europe), under the leadership of Jan Farský. The first ten candidates are expected to comprise seven STAN members and three prominent figures, followed by six members of “Starostové” in the subsequent ten.

Nerudová’s candidacy presents a distinct alternative to Andrej Babiš, whom she accuses of sowing anti-European sentiment through fear-based rhetoric. Her aspiration is to offer a clear and compelling choice to Babiš while contributing a resolute voice from Czechia in the European Parliament. The forthcoming elections bear the potential to shape not only the European parliamentary representation but also the ongoing discourse surrounding Czechia’s stance within the broader European context.

Eminent economist and former presidential candidate, Danuše Nerudová, has revealed her intention to contest the upcoming European Parliament elections next year. She will be spearheading the campaign as the leader of the STAN movement, joined by deputy chairman Jan Farský.

Nerudová’s strategic negotiations with several political factions over recent weeks have culminated in her decision to unite forces under the STAN banner, focusing on driving crucial reforms, enhancing quality of life, and ensuring equitable opportunities irrespective of background. Key shared priorities with the STAN movement, such as environmental preservation, rural area support, and universal rights, have reinforced Nerudová’s alignment with the movement.

“I perceive the European Union as the most successful joint project on our continent since World War II, but I also realize that the European Union and its institutions need reforms,” Nerudová asserted. She envisions a comprehensive European program designed to propel both Czechia and the Union toward a more progressive future.

The announcement has been greeted with enthusiasm within the STAN movement. Vít Rakušan, the head of the movement, expressed their appreciation for Nerudová’s choice to consolidate the liberal, pro-European democratic forces rather than splintering them through the establishment of a new party. Rakušan emphasized the potential of Nerudová to serve as a unifying figure and a strong advocate for Europe.

The European Parliament elections are slated for the upcoming spring. The STAN candidate slate for the elections will bear the name “Starostové a osobnosti pro Evropu” (Mayors and Personalities for Europe), under the leadership of Jan Farský. The first ten candidates are expected to comprise seven STAN members and three prominent figures, followed by six members of “Starostové” in the subsequent ten.

Nerudová’s candidacy presents a distinct alternative to Andrej Babiš, whom she accuses of sowing anti-European sentiment through fear-based rhetoric. Her aspiration is to offer a clear and compelling choice to Babiš while contributing a resolute voice from Czechia in the European Parliament. The forthcoming elections bear the potential to shape not only the European parliamentary representation but also the ongoing discourse surrounding Czechia’s stance within the broader European context.

Article by Prague Forum