On the 25th of March, exactly 60 years after the signing of the Rome Treaties, the 27 EU heads of state or government and heads of European Union institutions will meet in Rome to celebrate the anniversary. The leaders will look back at the achievements of the last 60 years, reaffirm their unity, their common interests and values, as well as reflect on the current challenges and set the priorities for the next ten years. The leaders are expected to issue the Rome Declaration. #THEEUROPEWEWANT has been a common campaign among over 230 NGOs and Trade Unions, putting forward our view on what Europe’s common interests should be. Together, we want to see a Just, Sustainable, Democratic and Inclusive Europe. We believe that in these uncertain times, European citizens seek a stronger focus on core ‘European values’, not a reduced one. We seek economic, social and environmental well-being. Economic well-being in the form of prosperity for all and the redistribution of wealth. Social well-being in the provision of quality, affordable services for all and a reinforcing of the social fabric which binds us together. Environmental well-being residing in a healthy natural environment that sustains all life on Earth and protects our clean water and air. You can read the full statement here.
The gathering in Rome should not be a chance to celebrate the past but an opportunity to commit to a future that meets and connects with the daily lives of European Citizens. Eurodiaconia joins with civil society to call for #THEEUROPEWEWANT – and we wait for the response from leaders across Europe.
Have a good weekend,
Heather