A newsletter bringing you news about family issues in Europe!  

Dear Reader,

As this year reaches its end many issues of concern to families across Europe are high on the political agenda. In Slovenia a national referendum on marriage just confirmed the will of the Slovenian people to preserve marriage, as the union of one man and one woman, overruling a vote in their Parliament. The European Parliament adopted a position only a few days ago condemning any form of surrogate motherhood, a position that is important and comes timely as this is issue is debated in several European countries and at the Council of Europe. In this issue of our newsletter we report on this, a new European Citizens Initiative in favour of marriage and family, development issues at the United Nations, initiatives in favour of human dignity at the European Parliament… We also want to draw the attention to a public consultation by the European Commission on a topic which is a challenge for all families, namely balance between family life and work. The consultation is open until 17 February 2016 and open to all families and citizens.

It is soon Christmas, a moment to rejoice and to unite for families. This moment of joy is also a particular moment of solitude for those who live in difficult conditions or are separated from their family. A recent event at the European Parliament gave an opportunity to recall all those who endure hardships at this festive moment of the year: a Christmas crib was exhibited at the European Parliament in Brussels and we had the pleasure to take part in the inauguration, sharing our thoughts on families that have to leave their homes in times of war.

Family is the cornerstone of Society and remains at the heart of most social issues and challenges. Family is a key to integral development, it is the way to peace through education and it is an invitation to share with others. May Christmas be a moment of shared joy for you and all those who you hold close to your heart, and may the shared joy shine throughout the new year ahead of us!

To help us pursue our work in 2016, please consider making a donation - all gifts, whatever their size, are a great support to us!

Greetings from Brussels,

Antoine Renard, President