EAPN members from the Globalisation Mainstreaming group and members from EAPN Sweden participated actively this year in the European Social Forum which took place from 17 to 21 September in Malmo.
Amid suggestions that the Irish government intends to amalgamate or abolish the Combat Poverty Agency (CPA) EAPN Ireland believes the CPA continues to play a crucial role in the fight against poverty.
EAPN Malta just released a new report on poverty and inequality in Malta, which is based on the results of focus groups meeting which were organized during June and July 2008.
EAPN Portugal recently started leading the “Bridges for Inclusion” project, with the participation of EAPN Castilla La Mancha (Spain), EAPN Flanders (Belgium), EAPN Bulgaria, EAPN Europe, as well as the Caritas Romania Confederation and the International Labour Organisation.
Improving social NGOs’ information and awareness of structural funds’ schemes, but also supporting them in developing their administrative capacity is crucial if we want structural funds to make a better impact in the fight against social exclusion.
EAPN will be working with CECODHAS, EPSU and other NGO’s to lobby on this important Declaration.
These guidelines are used by the Commission’s staff when assessing the economic, social and environmental impact of Commission’s proposals.
Statistics released on 10 June by the Irish Central Statistics Office show that despite Ireland having the second highest levels of GDP in the EU, at 45.4% above the EU average, its poverty rate is still above the EU average.
This tool kit is to help EAPN National Networks engage with the process this year, and to press for a stronger focus on social inclusion at all level.
These events involved EAPN National members, facilitators involved in the 7th People Experiencing poverty conference, and members from key Development organisations including CONCORD, Solidar, Caritas, ATD Fourth World and Dignity International.
