UN International Day of Older Persons
Online
President An Hermans has provided a message in on the occasion of the 33rd UNIDOP on October 1st.
Since its foundation in 1995, the European Seniors’ Union has been a meeting place for men and women who believe in Europe. The story of Europe is not only written by Heads of States and Governments, but also by its people, taking responsibility together.
The future of Europe? That is a future in which we can be at home and in which future generations can find peace and prosperity. This is not yet achieved. It should be developed further every day. For us, the generations that saw Europe grow, every day is a challenge to take these issues forward. Together with younger generations, policy makers at all levels, especially our politicians at the European level, and engaged citizens. A Europe of solidarity, where there is room for the unique story of every human being: that is our Europe. Let us make it happen.
President
Secretary General
The European Seniors’ Union (ESU) is the largest political seniors’ organisation in Europe, member association of the European People’s Party (EPP) and is represented in 27 states with 34 organisations and about 1.269.000 members.
We believe in people of all generations to lead Europe out of the recent crises. We want our economies to return to growth that produces jobs, with young people looking to their future with confidence, seniors feeling proud of their accomplishments and families protected and strengthened to endorse the challenges and risks of changing societies. One of the key challenges of today’s societies is demographic change. The EU, the Member States and all citizens, together we are called to cope with the gains, strengths and limitations of ageing societies. We, senior citizens, want to be part of a better Europe for all ages.
No age-discrimination
Everyone, regardless of age, gender or dependency is entitled to enjoy the fundamental human rights, lead a life of dignity and independence and participate in social and cultural life.
An age-friendly society
An age-friendly society is an effective approach for responding to demographic changes
– based on a positive attitude to ageing,
– with services and structures accessible to all,
– enabling active participation and involvement,
– providing protection, support and empowerment.
Active ageing
An inclusive labour market enabling older workers to remain at work for longer. Use and promote age diversity and intergenerational learning.
Intergenerational solidarity
Adequate, fair and sustainable social protection systems (health care, long-term care, pensions,…) for both current and future generations.
Human dignity for the most vulnerable
Improvement of the application of universal human standards to persons of all stages of life, also to persons who have reached old age and, in particular, the most vulnerable older people, people at risk of poverty, abuse, loneliness,…
Learn from each other
Europewide networks and movements to mainstream the promotion of an age-friendly society in all relevant EU policy processes and funding programmes to create synergies and support action at all levels.
A challenge for all
The European Union, governments at all levels, researchers, stakeholders, the media, civil society and all citizens are called to create, promote and stimulate a long life society, respecting all age groups.
The ESU is dedicated to the advancement of senior citizens’ rights throughout Europe and the promotion of senior-related issues within the European People’s Party.
Together with its member organisations, the ESU organises each year several activitities all over Europe.
The ESU is led by the Board (Presidium), which is elected every three years by the ESU Congress.
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