EU Day of Solidarity between Generations
Today, the European Day of Solidarity between Generations, initiated by AGE Platform Europe, marks its 15th edition with the public launch of the Declaration entitled "United Across Generations." This declaration, drafted jointly by AGE Platform Europe and the European Youth Forum as part of the MEET Project, reflects the common values, interests, and challenges shared by both the young and old populations. The declaration also calls for the 2024-2029 European political cycle to promote the benefits of intergenerational dialogue and connection for society.
the “United Across Generations” Declaration calls for:
- The European Union institutions to prioritise ending age discrimination in the next legislature;
- Encouraging every citizen to act and engage with an awareness for the future generations so that the decisions taken today leave a positive footprint for tomorrow, for people and the planet;
- The importance of intergenerational dialogue, the creation of opportunities for connection and conversation, as well as intergenerational volunteering;
- On the European Parliament to recognise the complementary contributions that younger and older people make to society and to protect, respect and fulfil the rights of all people;
- A healthy online space based on mutual respect and access to digital democratic conversations for all age groups.
“Both young and old people have similar needs and interests. Both need an accepting social environment and reliable material living conditions. Both must cope in a constantly changing environment and defend themselves against discrimination based on their age. Both are concerned about natural resources and suffer from the consequences of climate change. And both generations long for a world in which they can live their lives in peace.”
- Heidrun Mollenkopf, President of AGE Platform Europe
“Intergenerational dialogue and connection are essential for building a society based on mutual respect and genuine understanding. Over the past year, local community democracy festivals supported by the European Youth Forum and the AGE Platform Europe have brought together older and younger people to discuss their priorities for the European Elections 2024. Moments like these are vital for deepening an appreciation of how our shared and distinctive challenges can be tackled, to the benefit of not only generations alive today - but all generations to come.”
- María Rodríguez Alcázar, European Youth Forum
EU Elections 2024: seizing the moment to raise awareness
The upcoming renewal of our EU institutions through the EP Elections held in Europe from the 6th to the 9th of June provides a crucial moment to raise awareness among politicians at European, national, regional, and local levels on the need to further promote the concept of solidarity and cooperation between generations and bring more intergenerational fairness and social justice in our everyday lives.
Fostering a culture of solidarity between generations is not only about promoting mutual respect and understanding; it’s also about harnessing the collective power of diverse perspectives to tackle the challenges of our time.
Whether it’s addressing climate change, promoting social justice, or navigating the complexities of an ever-changing global landscape, intergenerational collaboration can lead to more comprehensive and sustainable solutions towards an inclusive Europe for all ages!
about our partner
AGE Platform Europe is the largest European network of non-profit organizations of and for older people. We elevate older people's voices, bringing their experiences and aspirations to the table to celebrate aging and fight for equality at all ages.
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