A written declaration addressed to the Members of the European Parliament has been launched with the aim to ensure the success of the European Year 2012 for Active ageing and Solidarity between Generations, by identifying concrete commitments to promote active ageing and solidarity between generations through the creation of an Age-Friendly European Union by 2020.

What is the written declaration 48/2011?

The written declaration n. 48/2011aims at ensuring the success of the European Year 2012 for Active ageing and Solidarity between Generations, by identifying concrete commitments to promote active ageing and solidarity between generations through the creation of an Age-Friendly European Union by 2020. In particular, the declaration wants to support the launch of three initiatives in 2012:

• An EU Age-Friendly Environment Network to exchange experiences and examples of good practice
• National action plans on active and healthy ageing to facilitate the involvement of a wide range of actors in the above mentioned Network
• A Covenant of Mayors on demographic change to gather and support local and regional public authorities to promote an Age-Friendly EU 

The declaration is already supported by 5 MEPs from the EPP, the PSE, ALDE and the Greens.

Why is the written declaration 48/2011 important?

In the context of the persistent economic and social crisis, amplified by demographic change, national and EU policy makers and all relevant stakeholders need to consider innovative solutions to address the impact of the crisis on our ageing societies that are fair and sustainable for all generations. On the framework of the European Year 2012, decision makers and all relevant stakeholders need to work together to create an Age-Friendly European Union that fosters solidarity between generations and enables the active participation and involvement of all age groups in society. This declaration wants to be a first step for long-lasting commitments to achieve an Age-Friendly EU.

How to sign the written declaration 48/2011?

MEPs can sign it during all plenary sessions on the board at the entrance to the Chambers in Strasbourg and Brussels until the 15th March 2012.