Citizens Take Over Europe

Citizens Take Over Europe is a pan-European coalition that brings together civil society organizations, citizens, and residents from across Europe to promote a more democratic, inclusive, and participatory European Union. Founded in spring 2020 amid the Covid-19 pandemic, the network was created in response to what it saw as a lack of meaningful democratic engagement in European politics. Its mission is to empower ordinary people—regardless of background or citizenship status—to play an active role in shaping the future of Europe. The coalition operates by organizing assemblies, debates, and events—both online and in-person—that foster dialogue on major European issues. A key focus is advocating for genuine citizen involvement in initiatives such as the Conference on the Future of Europe, pushing for processes that are participatory, transparent, and representative. CTOE has championed the creation of citizens’ assemblies and supports reforms that would embed citizen participation directly in EU decision-making. Citizens Take Over Europe also emphasizes values such as solidarity, feminism, sustainability, peace, anti-racism, and pluralism. Its vision is a Europe where public services are strong and inclusive, fundamental rights are upheld, and civil society is protected and empowered. Through a network of working groups and collaborations with over 50 member organizations, the coalition mobilizes people across borders to design a Europe that is caring, open, and truly democratic.