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<\/a><\/p>\nIn order to respond to numerous challenges Europe is facing today, over 100 young people gathered in European Economic and Social Committee on the occassion of Europe Day to discuss different issues with stakeholders ranging from representatives of the civil society to the representatives of the European Commission. The aim of the conference, titled \u2018Schuman declaration 65 years later – wishes of the young generation for Europe<\/i>\u2019, was for young people to develop \u00a0recommendations for future action on European integration (social, economic and political), democratic innovations and active citizenship, \u00a0as well as on education and learning mobility.<\/p>\n
Discussions during the conference brought attention to critical issues that European institutions must address at this point. Pointing out the increasing rise of populism and nationalism as a consequence of the crisis that many believe was mishandled by the European institutions, one of the proposals called for the creation of a \u2018European Republic\u2019 and a need for European citizen-based solutions to European problems. The proposal emphasized the importance of citizens\u2019 involvement in transnational political debates and decision-making processes. Such processes\u00a0were challenged, as participants of the conference called for a more inclusive voting system for European Parliamentary elections, proposing Member States to standardize their EP election systems and requesting greater accountability of the European Commission by introducing the direct election of the European Commission President by the European citizens.<\/p>\n The importance of fighting corruption on the European level was also tackled. While corruption is significantly lower in some Member States than others, it is still present to some degree in each of them, and presents a widespread concern among citizens. Young Europeans want to see a change urgently and wish for stronger actions such as the creation of an independent committee that would periodically check on the level of corruption in each Member State.<\/p>\n One of the most controversial proposals called for the EU Member States to introduce unconditional basic income in order to improve living standards and ensure that all citizens have the possibility to be active participants in society. While unconditional basic income is still perceived as a controversial idea, some have argued that its implementation on the European level could be feasible, and it shows that young people require more action to balance social inequality.<\/p>\n In line with that, gender inequality was also acknowledged as an important issue, as importance of education and greater awareness about the issue was emphasized, as well as empowering women in all professions. Young people expressed their concern about the Maternity Leave Directive, currently blocked by the Council, and have issued an urgent call for action on this matter. It is time for Europe to start acting, and not only talking about gender equality!<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n