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.
The ESU Regional Conference in Helsinki was a gathering of experts, policymakers, and professionals engaged in senior organisations and services, centred on the theme “Joy of life and strength from senior activities.” Organised in collaboration with Kansallinen Senioriliitto ry, the conference offered an inspiring platform to discuss the well-being and inclusion of seniors in Europe.
The event started with a warm welcome by Paula Risikko, First Deputy Speaker of the Finnish Parliament, our President Stefaan Vercamer, and Kari Kantalainen, President of Kansallinen Senioriliitto ry. Their opening remarks set the tone for a conference focused on knowledge-sharing and collaboration.
The morning session delved into senior well-being and social services in Finland. Minna-Liisa Luoma, Chief Specialist at the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), provided an in-depth look at the role of councils for older people and the structure of well-being services in Finland. This was followed by a presentation from Sirpa Pietikäinen, Member of the European Parliament, who explored how Finland and Europe can work together to promote the well-being of seniors. Professor Taina Rantanen from the University of Jyväskylä closed the session with an engaging talk on how the lives of older people have evolved, emphasising the importance of resilience and shedding light on the hidden issue of age-related discrimination.
During the conference, participants saw the video message from Dubravka Šuica, Vice President of the European Commission and Commissioner for Democracy and Demography. She expressed her gratitude for the trust the ESU has placed in her work over the years and highlighted the importance of continuing to follow up on policies that integrate seniors into the fabric of European society. Commissioner Šuica also referred to the ESU’s Open Letter to the New EU Commission: Addressing the Needs of Seniors, reaffirming her commitment to addressing the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
In the afternoon, a round table discussion focused on “Enhancing Involvement, Equality, and Value of Older People in Europe.” Päivi Topo, Ombudsman for Older People, and moderated the discussions. Contributions from Filip Hamro-Drotz (Svenska pensionärsförbundet SFP, Finland), Heinz K. Becker (former MEP and ESU Vice-President), and Patrick Penninckx (Secretary General, ESU) provided diverse perspectives on how to strengthen the societal roles of seniors.
The second part concluded in the magnificent Central Library Oodi of Helsinki, a fitting venue for the final presentations. Mikko Kautto, Managing Director of the Finnish Centre for Pensions, delivered an enlightening overview of Finland’s pension system, offering insights into its unique framework. This was followed by a lively presentation from Professor Laura Kolbe of the University of Helsinki, who took the audience on a captivating journey through Finland’s history.
The conference was a success, leaving participants with new knowledge, inspiration, and a shared commitment to promoting the well-being and inclusion of seniors in Europe