Addressing the Needs of Seniors: The ESU’s Open Letter to the New EU Commission (2024-2029)
On 17 September 2024, Ursula von der Leyen presented the proposed composition of the new EU Commission (2024-2029) to the European Parliament. Governments of the member states put forward their candidate-commissioners, who will be questioned by the Parliament with a final vote expected later in the fall. Then a new 5-year Commission will take office.
At this occasion, the European Seniors’ Union addressed an open letter to President von der Leyen, highlighting the concerns of seniors in European policy making. The ESU is following this process with interest, and this text intends to highlight some preoccupations. Below are a few extracts from the letter.
“The new Commission needs an anchor point to address the opportunities and challenges of demographic change.”
“Seniors deserve more attention, both in terms of their active participation in society and ensuring the necessary care, especially long-term care.”
“The policies related to ‘demographic change’ and ‘intergenerational fairness’, require a more ‘explicit’ mention of seniors”.
“We would also like to see the development of new areas of work, such as the improvement of seniors’ media literacy, the protection of seniors in the online environment against abuse and fraud, the attention for the physical and psychological well-being of the older generation through incentives for sports and active citizenship.”
The European Commission 2024-2029: A New Mandate Begins
Brussels
Commission officially starting its work on 1 December 2024, it has now begun addressing its ambitious agenda to tackle the challenges facing Europe.
ESU Regional Conference in Helsinki: “Joy of life and strength from senior activities”
Helsinki
Celebrating Senior Empowerment: Insights and Inspiration from the ESU Regional Conference in Helsinki
34th United Nations International Day of Older Persons
Online
Looking ahead to 1th October 2024
1 October: UNIDOP - From Global Attention to Local Initiatives
Foini
Across Europe, various Member Associations of ESU have marked the UNIDOP with inspiring initiatives.
Celebrating 20 Years of Zveza Seniorjev Nova Slovenija (N.Si)
Ljubljana
Our President, Stefaan Vercamer, represented the ESU at the 20th anniversary celebration of N.Si’s Seniors Organisation (Slovenia)
ESU Online Conference: "The European Elections: Results & Reflections"
Online
During our online conference we reflected on the recent European elections
EPP Political Assembly in Brussels: Taking Responsibility for Citizen-Centric Policy Making
Brussels
The EPP Political Assembly, chaired by Manfred Weber, focused on election outcomes, the Bucharest Manifesto, and support for Ursula von der Leyen.
In Memoriam of Guido Dumon
Leuven
On Pentecost 2024, we lost a dear friend who we will forever cherish in our hearts: Guido Dumon
For a Better Tomorrow: Engaging Seniors in European Elections
Leuven
As we approach the upcoming European Elections on June 9th, 2024, it is crucial that we, as seniors, recognize our role in shaping the future of our continent.
Tribute to An Hermans: A Legacy of Dedication and Friendship
Leuven
For over a decade, An Hermans has served as the President of the European Seniors' Union, alongside the Secretary General Guido Dumon.
ESU Election Congress: A Transformative Journey Towards ‘a Better Tomorrow’
Leuven
ESU Election Congress
ESU Conference in Bratislava: A Resounding Success
Bratislava - Slovakia
The congress was marked by informative discussions and a focus on the active participation of seniors in society