Eurochild on Demographic Change

2007

On 10 May 2007, the EC published the so-called "Family Communication", entitled "Promoting Solidarity between the Generations". Eurochild has contributed with a position paper, in which we raised the following main points:

• ensure clarity on what is meant by family and family policies
• respect individual rights
• recognise that child rights are linked to, but are by no means synonymous with, the rights of their parents
• tackling child poverty is key and employment is not the only answer
• early years' services are not just about freeing up their partents time for work
• European Alliance for Families must explore the full range of family support services

2006

• the necessity of consultation with civil society
• the importance of quality child care services
• the case of child carers at home
• the issue of flexicurity
• social inclusion and participation

In January 2007 the First Forum on the demographic future of Europe
was organised in Brussels.

2005

Due to unprecedented demographic changes in Europe, including an ageing population, constantly dropping birth rates and increasing immigration, the EC has decided to consult with civil society and concerned stakeholders on this issue. In the beginning of 2005 it published a Green Paper on "Confronting Demographic Change: a new solidarity between the generations". The publication was accompanied by a Conference with the same title in July 2005.

Eurochild has contributed with a Position Paper in October 2005. The main points it raised were:

• the importance of social cohesion besides economic reforms and employment
• the growing needs for quality services for both the elderly and children
• education
• the situation of women
• the utilitarian view of young people, as future workers and consumers, without regards to their rights and wellbeing
• work-life balance

Replies from other stakeholders on the Green Paper can be found on the EC website.

Social Platform Activities on Demographic Change in 2007

The Platform of Social NGOs, of which Eurochild is a member, has chosen demographic and social change as its annual theme for 2007. This means, that all the issues, which it is following, are going to be looked at from the point of view of their impact on demographic and social change.

In November 2005 the Social Platform organised a Seminar on "Demographic Change and the financial sustainability of social protection systems". Following the Commission Communication on Demographic Change, it sent a common response to the Communication.

The idea now is to use the expertise in this area which already exists within the membership of the Social Platform. In addition, a special page on demographic change will be added to the new website of the organisation, as well as an edition of "Social Voices" dedicated to the annual theme. The work throughout the year will result in a common Social Platform position on demographic change. It will especially try to show a positive approach to the issue, in opposition to the current image it has of being a "problem" rather than a challenge to tackle.

During the last meeting of the Social Policy working group in February 2007, a debate took place on key issues to be tackled throughout the year. Members came up with the following items of importance to them:

• work-life balance
• quality care
• sustainability of social protection systems
• migration & integration
• impact on poverty and social exclusion
• over-emphasis on employment
• gender perspective

The objectives are to shape the debate on demographic and social change, reach national and civil society organisations, taking the message out of Brussels. Its results will be disseminated during the Social Platform annual conference at the end of the year as well as in common statements to be published.

More information will be posted here soon.