VOICED: Euro elections: Ambivalence reigns

The 2009 European parliamentary elections began with Britain and the Netherlands voting early. Euroskeptic and extremist parties, like the Dutch Party of Freedom, gained significant support due to voter ambivalence. The UK Independence Party also saw potential growth, driven by dissatisfaction with the British government. Voter turnout was low, with only 36% in the Netherlands, and similar trends were seen across the EU. Despite these shifts, the conservative European People's Party coalition was expected to maintain the most seats in the European Parliament.

Which countries kicked off the 2009 European parliamentary elections?

• Spain and Italy

• France and Germany

• Portugal and Greece

• Britain and the Netherlands

What percentage of the vote did the UK Independence Party aim to attract?

• 25%

• 10%

• 15%

• 20%

What was a significant factor contributing to the UK Independence Party's expected vote gain?

• Economic growth

• Unpopular government

• Environmental policies

• Foreign relations

What was the voter turnout in the Netherlands during the 2009 elections?

• 36%

• 39%

• 45%

• 42%

Which party coalition is expected to retain the highest number of MEPs in the European Parliament?

• Socialist Party

• Green Party

• European People's Party

• Liberal Democrats