The aim of this programme is to bring Europe closer to its citizens and to enable them to participate fully in the European project. The programme gives citizens the opportunity to get involved in transnational exchanges and co-operation and develop a sense of belonging through discussing common European ideals and it encourages the process of European integration. However, the S&D Group is disappointed that MEPs - directly elected by European citizens - could not participate fully in the creation of a citizens' programme for the next 7 years and that it has received such a low budget, especially as 2013 is the European Year of Citizens.