Biennial national meeting of Hoyre-Seniors

On 13 and 14 February, ESU president An Hermans and general secretary Guido Dumon were invited to Bergen, Norway, for the biennial national meeting of Hoyre-Seniors. The Hoyre-Seniors have been active members of the ESU for many years. Norway is not a Member State of the European Union (EU). However, it is associated with the Union through its membership of the European Economic Area (EEA), which was signed in 1992 and established in 1994. The Agreement on the European Economic Area (EEA) is the cornerstone of cooperation and ensures Norway’s participation in the EU single market. Norway is also part of the Schengen Agreement and cooperates with the EU on foreign and security policy.

The biennial national meeting is a well-prepared gathering of delegates from all over the country who make decisions for the next period: election of the association’s president and board; information sessions on political issues, statements on seniors’ aspirations in society.

The meeting opened on 13 February with a highly appreciated speech by Erna Solberg, former prime minister of Norway and currently party leader of Hoyre. She analysed the international and national horizon of challenges facing our societies. This became even more concrete in the many questions and responses from the participants. It was a lively discussion, showing that older people are not only involved in senior issues, but in all areas of society.

During her speech, on 14 February, An Hermans expressed her deep appreciation for the commitment of the Hoyre seniors and their loyalty to ESU:

“Each time (that we participated in your meetings) was also a joyful opportunity to meet colleagues and friends, and to return home inspired, empowered and convinced that we will share the lessons learned in our associations and together in European society pursue a strong human rights approach for an age-friendly society. One of your societal keys to success is certainly the close cooperation between your association, as a civil society organisation, scientific researchers and politicians in parliament and government. That is the way to find together the best perspectives for the future together.

The quality of life of seniors in Norway is measured as one of the best in the world, and ageing has been high on the political agenda for decades. You and your political leaders have understood that policies on ageing are not just about healthcare or pensions, but about all areas of society, and that it is a responsibility of the whole society. (…)”

You can find ESU President Hermans’ full speech here.

During the biennial national meeting, Lars Myraune was elected as president. We wish him, the new elected board, and all Seniors from Hoyre all the best for the future.