Europeans Cast Ballots in First Direct Election for European Parliament

Historical Significance

In June 1979, approximately 11 million voters in the European Community participated in the first direct election for the European Parliament. This marked a significant milestone in the organization's history.

National and International Impact

The election, held in nine countries, was particularly notable in Germany, where 78 representatives were elected. Across the EU, hundreds of millions of people were eligible to vote for the first time.

German Political Landscape

In Germany, the Christian Democratic Union/Christian Social Union (CDU/CSU) emerged as the biggest winner, securing 42 of the 81 German seats. The Social Democratic Party (SPD) came in second with 35 seats.