European Christian Political Youth Network

CrossroadS - Christian Democratic Political Academy

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 12:28:31 +0200

Fourth and last session, 21-24 February 2013
ore information: http://www.ecpyn.org/page/29395

CrossroadS - Christian Democratic Political Academy

Sun, 15 Apr 2012 17:34:01 +0200

Third session, 5-7 October 2012.
More information: http://www.ecpyn.org/page/29395

ECPYN General Assembly

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 01:29:44 +0100

For more information click here.

9th ECPYN International Summer School

Sat, 10 Dec 2011 12:40:08 +0100

The 9th ECPYN International Summer School will be held in Croatia, 9-13 July 2012

CrossroadS - Christian Democratic Political Academy

Sun, 15 Apr 2012 17:34:22 +0200

Second session in Croatia, 6-8 July 2012.
More information: http://www.ecpyn.org/page/29395

ECPM General Assembly

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 11:48:27 +0200

The General Assembly of the European Christian Political Movement in Brussels, Belgium.

The venue will be Martin’s Central Park, Boulevard Charlemagne 80, Brussels.

More information can be found here.

ECPM symposium 'EU relations with Israel'

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 11:46:29 +0200

Venue: Martin’s Central Park, Boulevard Charlemagne 80, Brussels.

For more information click here.

ECPM Cocktail in the European Parliament

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 11:43:47 +0200

ECPM will organize a cocktail right after the ECPF conference ‘Values; Foundations for Europe’s economy’

ECPF Congress 'Values, the foundation for Europe's economy'

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 11:41:40 +0200

ECPF Congress ‘Values, the foundation for Europe’s economy’. This event will also be the Annual General Members Assembly. Location: European Parliament. More information: secretariat@ecpf.info.

CrossroadS - Christian Democratic Political Academy

Sun, 15 Apr 2012 17:34:39 +0200

First session, 4-6 May 2012.
More information: http://www.ecpyn.org/page/29395

Europe's Values Seminar, The Hague (The Netherlands)

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 14:59:33 +0100

This seminar, wich is based on the ECPF project 'Europe's Values', will be organized in co-operation with the ‘Groen van Prinsterer institute’. For more information, you can send an email to wi@christenunie.nl

Please note that this event is aimed at the Dutch political scene and the Dutch general public and that the language of the conference will be Dutch.

ECPM Conference on Economy in Latvia

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 18:19:44 +0100

ECPM invites you to the conference "Social Market Economy: Guaranty of Economic Success and Social Stability" in Riga, Latvia. The conference will take place on 14 April.

Together with the Latvian KDS and several partners, ECPM is very happy to welcome you to our event.

Click here for the invitation and more information about the location and registration.

We will publish the final programme on our website soon.

We hope to see you in Latvia in April!

ECPM Conference on Economy in Latvia

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 18:11:49 +0100

Click here for the invitation and more information about the location and registration.
We will publish the final programme on our website soon.
We hope to see you in Latvia in April!

Freedom of Faith & Education Seminar, Dublin

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 14:57:05 +0100

This seminar on education and faith-based schools will be organized by ECPF in co-operation with the Iona Institute. For more information, please visit http://www.ionainstitute.ie/index.php?id=1939.

ECPYN Winter School 2012 - Where European politics met emotion and Christian beliefs

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 09:45:57 +0100

ECPYN members from all over Europe gathered for this year's next Winter School in a cutting-edge conference and education complex nestled next to the breathtaking World Heritage site of the Basilica in Esztergom. The week-long event provided the young Christian participants with the chance to take part in thought-provoking lectures, interactive workshops and in a wide range of extra-curricular programmes.

Though not everyone was present for the opening ceremony on the first evening due to travel difficulties, this was the moment for the ECPYN board to officially kick off the week, and for everyone to soak in the atmosphere of this lovely hilltop town, with its splendid views of the Basilica’s riverfront surroundings. Journeys from crowded airport terminals and railway stations were rewarded with a gourmet welcome meal in a tucked-away wine cellar restaurant.

After the ECPYN’s presidential address, on the menu for the first day were two insightful lectures on the effects of the economic crisis on Eastern Europe and a training on Socrates debating techniques, followed by a stroll across the historic town, which proved to be a wonderful base for the Winter School. The curtain came down on the day’s events with the ECPYN movie evening, in which we even met Meryl Streep – but on screen as former UK Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher: the embodiment of British conservatism.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) action in a Christian way: the smile of disabled people is the joy of ECPYN.
The young participants were briskly energised on a snowy Wednesday morning when the day opened with a lecture by a Hungarian Christian Democrat MP on European energy policy, in the context of a sustainable oil and natural gas supply system: a highly strategic international pipeline across the continent. This was followed by a useful intellectual dialogue on Christian morals and the financial crisis, guided by Patrick Eagan, a political and PR adviser from the USA.

No matter how much the events of ECPYN examine moral principles in European policy, all such efforts are just words without faith-driven action on the spot: for the first time ECPYN introduced its CSR campaign, with the aim of it becoming a regular feature of the ECPYN’s activities in the future. Participants paid a long-awaited visit to a local home for disabled people in Esztergom, to spend Wednesday afternoon together with patients, whose overwhelming love made every guest feel at home. We were received with a dance performance and an abundance of joy: smiling disabled children and shared prayer brought home the realisation of God’s presence with us.

Alfresco spa and Slovakian snowballs
Deeply impressed by the genuine hospitality of the home for disabled people, participants could not have been better prepared for an afternoon lecture by an analyst from the KDNP (Hungarian Christian Democrats), on the role of the human being in European Christian politics. After a day of contrast it was time for all participants to relish the local fare and airy atmosphere of the Basilica wine cellar, sampling wines from an exclusive selection of boutique vineyards. The end of the day saw a chilly walk across the Danube to Slovakia, and a relaxing spa under the stars supplemented by a game of snowballs in swimming costumes.

Picturesque excursion and action for Belarus
Day Four offered an exhilarating excursion to Budapest, one of Central Europe’s most beautiful cities, with a hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour along the banks of the romantic Danube, savouring architecture from the baroque to the modern, culminating in a visit to the commanding Parliament building.

‘Europe and Christianity’ offered views from a Jesuit, and former manager of a leading European cosmetic company, brought constructive criticism on current European policies on how to address economic issues while preserving a Christian outlook. The highlight of the day, however, was yet to come: in the afternoon WS participants pooled all their energy to gather outside the Belarusian Embassy in Budapest and express their serious concerns for the fate of that country. A candlelit protest against the authorities there included a banner with the inscription: ‘Free Belarus’. Emotion embraced the ECPYN members as they urged the ambassador to arrange for the immediate release and rehabilitation of Pavel Sieviaryniets and thirteen other political prisoners, to make changes to the electoral law and to ensure the unhindered official registration of democratic parties, such as the Belarusian Christian Democratic Party.

After all the action planned for the day, there was a surprise folk evening with a Hungarian string band and a dynamic performance in Esztergom, in which even a dancer from the Board displayed his Hungarian roots.

The 2012 Winter School of the ECPYN created a platform for all members to be part of both a practical and intellectual training event and hear lectures on a wide range of topics related to Christian Democracy, while enjoying God’s blessings and joy.

And now...
The ECPYN Winter School 2012 has been, as many other ECPYN event, a very special moment of get together on fruitful discussions and applicable knowledge. This week to be remembered will stay as a milestone of the way of ECPYN and Christian-Democracy in Europe as a next step toward more communication and more political visibility for our values. All participants will spread the word: ECPYN is ready to move forward on the political scene. For these who could not experience it yet, let us catch up at the next ECPYN event!

For an overview in pictures, click here.

Free Belarus! - ECPYN demonstrates outside the Belarusian Embassy in Budapest

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 19:52:51 +0100

As a prime action during the latest winter jamboree of the European Christian Political Youth Network in Esztergom, participants from all over Europe expressed solidarity with their Belarusian fellow-Christian Democrats, in order to raise awareness against the unlawful registration procedures of authorities with an on-the-spot, candle-lit petition demonstration outside the Belarus Embassy in Budapest.

Whatever the content of an ECPYN event focuses on, Europe-wide Christian political affairs and acute concerns will remain high-profile topics to fight for within our organisation. Therefore, on 9 February 2012 the ECPYN held a protest and handed over a petition at the Belarus Embassy to Budapest in protest against the Belarusian authorities’ continued oppression of political activists fighting for free and fair elections in the country.

The action gave an opportunity to call upon the Belarusian authorities to urge for the immediate release and rehabilitation of Pavel Sieviaryniets and thirteen other political prisoners, who are suffering under the oppression of the current regime. Furthermore, in co-operation with the Belarusian Christian Democratic Party, the ECPYN strongly urges the Belarusian government to make changes to its electoral law, providing equal rights to state and non-state mass media in preparation for free and democratic elections this year.

The ECPM expressly requests that the authorities ensure the unhindered official registration of democratic parties and organisations, in particular the recently-constituted Belarusian Christian Democratic Party.

In handing over a Holy Bible, the ECPYN also reminded the Budapest representation of Belarus of the unconditional love which the Belarusian government – as leaders of a genuine Christian people – will be betraying if it continues to systematically suppress fundamental human rights.

ECPYN Winter School

Fri, 30 Dec 2011 18:34:14 +0100

From 6-8 February in Esztergom, Hungary.

For more information click here.

ECPYN presents: the Emergency Exit - Humanity behind the financial crisis in Europe

Fri, 30 Dec 2011 18:27:20 +0100

In the turbulence of financial challenges, and when the European Union is in severe distress, when dependence and complexity are rapidly increasing, there is one crucial thing we urgently need to find for the Old Continent: the Emergency Exit - Humanity behind the financial crisis in Europe.

The ECPYN introduces its next winter school, taking place between 6 and 10 February 2012 in the picturesque town of Esztergom, in northern Hungary. This is a long-awaited opportunity for all of us to set out and explore possible exit routes for our nations and the EU from our severe financial burdens and economic turmoil, guided by clearly defined Christian policy based on people’s needs. The Winter School will therefore cast a spotlight on the human approach and ways to identify a rapid solution to financial challenges, while underlining Christian Democratic values and the public interest rather than material priorities. The academic quality will be of the high international standard which is now familiar, with the same dual emphasis on intellectual challenge combined with extensive practical application.

This is a unique occasion for all participants to take their position on financial policy in Europe, to extend their knowledge and share ideas on finance-related processes in the EU, with first-hand accounts from top Hungarian and international politicians, intellectuals and professionals.
This winter the youth Christian political event will take place in the St. Adalbert conference complex: a landmark building in the eclectic style which has been restored to its former glory. It is in a historic location, in the shadow of Esztergom Basilica: a World Heritage site looking out over the southern lowlands of Slovakia. The ECPYN WS ‘one-city-two-countries’ venue has been exquisitely transformed with ultra-modern comforts, and its location on the bank of the Danube boasts panoramic views of the international border and the surrounding hills. Most importantly of all, it will play host to a wide range of political themes.

In addition to all this, we have certainly not forgotten about extra-curricular events. Among these will be: a local quality wine-tasting evening; a visit to Parliament; behind-the-scenes presentations by Hungarian government representatives; Budapest ‘hop-on hop-off’ sightseeing; a Hungarian folklore evening with the closing stage of a ‘social responsibility campaign’; and an ‘Aqua Park’ visit.

The ECPYN Winter School – with participants of more than fifteen nationalities, international lecturers and high-ranking politicians – continues to offer you and your organisation or party one of Europe’s best youth political platforms, distinct for the breadth and depth of knowledge and skills it delivers related to European Christian politics and new approaches on relevant topics and practice.
Let’s meet and greet in Hungary!

More information and registration at www.ecpyn.org/winterschool

ECPM & ECPYN send open letter to all Belarusian ambassadors in Europe

Fri, 23 Dec 2011 17:40:11 +0100

The letter below has been sent by ECPM & ECPYN to all Belarusian ambassadors. Both organisations are very worried about the unexpected detentions of political activists that occurred this week. One year after the peaceful demonstrations, followed by extremely harsh measures by the Belarusian authorities, it looks like similar tactics are being used again by the Belarusian government to silence members of the opposition. The letter is listed below.

Your Excellency,

Following opposition protests after the presidential election on 19 December 2010, your authorities detained fourteen political activists fighting for free and fair elections in your country. These activists are now serving prison or labour camp sentences in inhuman conditions. Our party strongly condemns this, and finds that your government’s measures violate international human rights and the right to exercise freedom of religion and conscience.

Further to this, we have recently been astonished to hear that co-chairman of the Belarusian Christian Democrats and former presidential candidate Vital Rymasheuski was detained in the early afternoon of 19 December 2011, while leaving his house. He is a genuine Christian Democrat, and it is unacceptable for him to be deprived of the right to religion and conscience and to be prevented from freely holding a political opinion in his own country.

The European Christian Political Movement (ECPM) and its youth section the European Christian Political Youth Network (ECPYN) strongly believe that your Excellency’s direction of a representation in a free European country enables you to see a clear distinction between the democratic country you are currently based in and the deficit of democracy in your own country. The ECPM is a European political party recognized by the European Parliament.

We hereby call upon your Excellency to urge for the immediate release and rehabilitation of Pavel Sieviaryniets and thirteen other political prisoners, who are suffering under the oppression of the current regime. Furthermore, in co-operation with the Belarusian Christian Democratic Party, we strongly urge the Belarusian government to make changes to electoral law, providing equal rights to state and non-state mass media in preparation for free and democratic elections next year.

The ECPM explicitly requests that the authorities ensure the unhindered official registration of democratic parties and organisations, such as the recently-constituted Belarusian Christian Democratic Party.

With the approach of Christmas and the new year we would also remind you that Christmas is a time of unconditional love which the Belarusian government will be betraying if it continues to systematically suppress fundamental human rights.

We request that you convey our concerns to the relevant departments in your government, to seek the earliest possible resolution.

In closing, we wish you and the people of Belarus a Blessed Christmas and a New Year of hope and renewal.

Please accept, Your Excellency, the assurances of our highest consideration.

Yours sincerely,

The Boards of ECPM & ECPYN

23 December 2011

'I believe in Christianity as I believe in the rising sun'

Sat, 24 Dec 2011 17:02:51 +0100

'I believe in Christianity as I believe in the rising sun; not because I see it, but because by it I can see all else.'

The Belarussian Christian Democrats (BCD) and the Young Christian Democrats have held there annual congress on 17 December 2011 in Minsk. On behalf of the European Christian Political Youth Network Peter Danku (director of Communications) was present and delivered a speech. Here you can read it:

Honourable Chairman, Dear party officials,

Ladies and Gentlemen, my dear fellow Christian Democrats,

I am delighted and I feel honoured to have the opportunity to speak to you here as a representative of the European Christian Political Youth Network.

‘I believe in Christianity as I believe in the rising sun; not because I see it, but because by it I can see all else.’

These words of Clive Staples Lewis, twentieth-century British novelist and Christian apologist, came into my mind when I was on the plane from Budapest, on my way here to this beautiful country.

This quotation is one of hope and commitment – of the type you have shown in your efforts to receive legal recognition from the authorities here to be officially established and registered. I am keenly aware that this has been an uphill battle for you this past couple of years, as this is the fourth time you have tried to be registered.

By way of example, yesterday my colleague in the ECPM – Leo van Duisburg, who was visiting me in Budapest, but whose visa application to visit Belarus was rejected – told me that the BCD has been fighting for registration for a long time, and that no one knows if and when they will succeed in becoming a party. And then he asked me what I thought.

My answer was immediate: I am full of hope, and I am almost 100% sure that your application will succeed this time. But over the past twenty-four hours my feelings have changed somewhat, and now I am not sure that this, the fourth time, will be a successful end to the story.

I say this because, first of all, none of us acting alone can ensure the future of the Belarusian Christian Democracy; it is all of us together, showing common commitment in close ties with God, who will find the way to contribute to the development of the BCD and a shared European Christian Democracy.

But I know that no matter how much we co-operate, there is still a long way ahead of you, and you face a huge challenge.

If we look to the Bible we can immediately turn to the story of David, who as a young man achieved what seemed impossible in defeating Goliath in a life or death battle.

But just imagine the years that were needed for him to become the vessel of God’s will, until one day he faced his enemy.

And so I ask you to keep up the good work, because you are doing a great job. Knowing your country and the circumstances, there seems to be a long way to go, requiring great commitment and, most importantly, deep belief in God.

Now, before I finish, here is something special for you from Hungary. (A pot of grass is handed over.)

I would like to ask you, Mr. Vital Rymasheuski, to come up and take it from me – please feel free to open it now. This is a nice little plot of grass: something that you have to water every day, so that one sunny day it will be lush and bushy.

Well, you are these grassroots, yours are the Christian political roots of God in this country. This country may be a garden, but it is one with no fertile soil, and where even if you sow grass seeds, some people will deliberately stamp on them and stop them from growing.

But, my fellow Christian Democrats, there is still hope. This morning I was surprised to see that dawn breaks much later in this country. Light may come later, but still we can see the sun rise. No power, no oppressive regime can stop these elements which come from the Lord: abundant sunshine and ample rain.

My friends, I want to come back when this grass has grown to the size of a football field: the field of the Belarusian Christian Democratic Party. The ECPM and ECPYN are ready to play a great match on your side as one team with you, together for the championship of a common European Christian Democracy.

That is what I honestly envisage and would like to realise in co-operation with you –something I wish from the bottom of my heart. I and the European Christian Political Youth Network – and our mother party ECPM – are on your side, to help you build a strong foundation for the BCD.

I began my speech saying that I believe in Christianity as I believe in the rising sun – for us now you are the rising sun and the fast-growing grass.
In closing, just trust in the Lord: he will guide your actions. »All you need to do is to care for this tiny plot of grass«.

Thank you! May God bless you all, and have a Blessed Christmas time and a promising New Year.

Peter I. Danku
Director of Communication
European Christian Political Youth Network

ECPYN presents: CrossroadS - Christian Democratic Political Academy

Sun, 15 Apr 2012 17:35:13 +0200

Different people, different views, different approach, different potential:

We, young European Christian politicians, still have to seek and identify a common platform for a new, like-minded generation for the benefit of the European societies.

You and us just need a time and place.

Where We Meet…

Where We Share…

Where We Learn…

Where We Enjoy...	Christian Policy in Europe at the:

	CrossroadS – Christian Democratic Political Academy

	In association with ECPYN.

Take part in and be one of the successful candidates, who can pursue a four-round, fully professional, cutting-edge academy course.

CrossroadS - Christian Democratic Political Academy provides a series of academy events with Christian democratic political content and professional skills for young political decision makers at national or European level, who are close to the Christian democratic political philosophy.

We are looking for young, talented Christian-minded people, who are committed to European Christian democracy and have already shown ability and sufficient motivation. The training course will focus on theoretical, organisation and political leadership, with sought-after lecturers, team building mentors and manager-like coaches.

>>> Read more... >>>

Beyond Individualism

Sat, 26 Nov 2011 00:00:00 +0100

Christian leaders from around Europe will gather at the Law Society in London on 25th and 26th November for a special summit to consider the future of Christian political engagement across the continent and within the UK. It will draw on the European electoral experience of Christian Democracy and arguments connecting Christianity to free and open societies. For more information: http://www.beyondindividualism.org

Beyond Individualism

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 11:53:56 +0100

Romanian Prayer Breakfast 2011: "Church and State"

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 09:38:49 +0100

On 7-9 December, the ECPM (European Christian Political Movement) in collaboration with the Ecumenical Prayer Group from the Romanian Parliament, and the Bible Society from the United Kingdom will organize a Conference with as theme: "Church and State" combined with the Romanian Prayer Breakfast (RPB) that is hosted by the President of the Romanian President of the Chamber of Deputies, Mrs. Roberta Anastase.

The event will start with the Romanian Prayer Breakfast in the morning and will followed be by the Conference on the 9th in the afternoon and evening. On 9 December we will organize (optional) a special Transylvanian excursion. The conference will take place in the Romanian Parliament (the Parliamental Palace).

For more information and registration click here.

Revitalizing Christian Values in Europe

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 00:00:00 +0100

The European Christian Political Foundation organizes a conference about Revitalizing Christian Values in Europe. More info: http://www.ecpf.info/timisoara

Revitalizing Christian Values in Europe

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 00:00:00 +0100

The European Christian Political Foundation organizes a conference about Revitalizing Christian Values in Europe. More info: http://www.ecpf.info/timisoara

Revitalizing Christian Values in Europe

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 11:53:32 +0100

The European Christian Political Foundation organizes a conference about Revitalizing Christian Values in Europe. More info: http://www.ecpf.info/timisoara

Who is going to pay?

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 11:52:47 +0100

This was the burning issue that formed the subject for a weekend conference for Western European Christian youth parties organised by the European Christian Political Youth Network (ECPYN) on 14 - 16 October 2011 in St. Vith, Belgium.

This was a picturesque setting for a serious topic, which is now a real hot potato: how we, European Christian democrats can evaluate the current Euro-crisis and plan a Christian-minded approach to illuminating and overcoming complex challenges in the turbulence of present European policy.

Young participants and speakers from several countries had a weekend of thought-provoking presentations, creative teamwork and productive workshops. With an introductory presentation given by Kris Vleugels on Friday (Vice-President of the European Christian Political Movement, ECPM), the series of sessions started with young Christian democrats being asked why we should all help Greece survive this crisis and keep an EU member country in the community. His main point was solidarity – a much-needed word that could provide us Christian politicians with a solution for Europe’s financial problems. Being open-minded European Christians, we should find ways and means to help other brothers and sisters who are in need, and encourage others to do so. A brief synopsis of the current state of play with an apt comparison between Europe and the speaker’s home country Belgium made the session simply stunning for all of us. Following the session we had time for a one-on-one discussion on the topic and liaise with each other while enjoying a hot cup of coffee à la Belgique.

A friend in need is a friend indeed – how to plug the Greek budget gap
The Saturday session started with one of the most challenging workshops of the conference: a business simulation game on how to allocate resources on a European scale. Players were financial decision-makers from four eurozone countries – Greece, The Netherlands, France and Germany – and on-the-spot analysts, who were given the task to set up a state budget divided into ten segments. It almost immediately became clear that Greece was the weakest point in the system, and so it was imperative for its counterparts to negotiate a win-win strategy and make resources available from their own budgets for a bailout action plan for the country. Real fun, much experience and edifying sessions made us realise that –under certain preconditions – decision-makers throughout Europe have to make every effort to stand by Greece.

The Bible and the economy: a good reference point for a clear view
In the afternoon of the second day a presentation by Marie-Caroline Leroux, representative of World Alliance, provided an invaluable insight into the situation arising from an increasing world population and how we are to curb worldwide birth-rates. After an impressive presentation, her clear conclusion was that birth-rates should not be affected by global decision-makers, because we need all people to maintain a high level of welfare in several ways around the globe.

In the afternoon Jannes de Jong, representative of the Brussels Office of ChristenUnie (the Dutch party ChristionUnion), gave a presentation about the crisis and politics, based on the Bible. After he pointed out what some experts had to say about the crisis, a logical link was made with the Bible, and one could at once realise how purely Holy Scripture can provide us with a clear view and a moral compass in the turbulence of the current economic crisis. The audience was divided into four groups and discussed several statements – this was highly informative and gave everyone a lot of fun, especially with the witty metaphors used in discussions to describe the burning topic of the euro crisis.
In the evening participants went out to wine and dine in a local restaurant, with lively conversation and a great surprise for Jeannette Dorothea Schoonderwoord (Deputy Secretary of ECPYN), who was celebrating her 20th birthday.
The Sunday programme began with a church service in the heart of the lovely town. It was impressive for a group of young people from different nations to give praise to God and join in common prayer.
There was time to have a last cup of warming tea and then say goodbye to everyone.

St. Vith, the Belgian centre of German-speaking minority offered a unique location and a great opportunity for ECPYN associates to gather together, enjoy each other’s company and most importantly to have a closer, Christian-minded look in depth at the different challenges faced by EU countries within and outside the eurozone at the present time.

Did you miss this event? Be sure you attend next time – you are warmly welcome!!

European Christian Leaders Gather in London to Debate Future Tactics over Christian Political Engage

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 10:10:06 +0100

Entitled ‘Beyond Individualism’, the event will examine responses to the advance of secularism and the collapse of a shared moral purpose underpinning European culture through the rise of empty consumerism. It will provoke the Christian community to articulate a robust and compelling response to the crisis facing Europe.

Contributors include contemporary political thinkers, social commentators and church leaders including Dr Phillip Blond, Lord Glasman, Francis Davis, Os Guinness, Maria Hildingsson, Franck Margain, Eimert van Middelkoop, Bishop Michael Nazir-Ali and Andrea Williams.

The event is being hosted in London by the European Christian Political Movement (ECPM), a growing trans-national association of Christian Democratic parties and Christian public policy organisations from across Europe, at the invitation of the Christian Peoples Alliance (CPA) party, with organisation and arrangements made by lobby group Christian Concern.
The ECPM also has the support of UK-based Christian political and policy think-tanks, CARE, The Jubilee Centre, The Relationships Foundation and THEOS who are also partners in this event.

Welcoming the conference, Bishop Michael Nazir-Ali said: “We need in this country to develop a tradition of thinking in a Christian way about democracy, the rule of law and our political life in general and I hope that this conference will help people from across the political spectrum to begin to do that.”

Church leaders, politicians and other leaders in public life havebeen invited to attend the event, which is open to Christian members of the public. Owing to the generosity of sponsors, a limited number of heavily subsidised places are currently available (via the event website). Further details are available at: www.beyondindividualism.org.

We warmly invite you to participate!

Who's going to pay??

Fri, 16 Sep 2011 13:20:23 +0200

The most discussed topic these days in Europe is the financial crisis. Therefore ECPYN organizes a Western European conference about the Christian Democratic view on the economic crisis in the weekend of 14, 15 and 16 October in St. Vith (Belgium). It will be a training weekend for young people involved in political organisations from Western Europe.

During the financial crisis, a lot of European countries are receiving help from the European Union. We want to share and discuss about our position as Christians during the crisis; do we have the responsibility to pay for the European countries who keep asking for more help and money?

The conference will be organised by the European Christian Political Youth Network (ECPYN), a political association of youth organisations from all over Europe, together with PerspectieF (youth of the Christian Union party of the Netherlands). Expert speakers will give lectures about this topic. This training weekend will also include interesting workshops. It is obviously a good opportunity for meeting politically involved young Christian Democrats from neighbouring countries. Participation for the whole weekend costs EUR 30,-

Do you want to join this educative and inspiring conference? You are welcome! For more information and application click here.

ECPYN promotes a stronger Europe at its 8th International Summer School

Fri, 16 Sep 2011 13:24:49 +0200

Over 40 young Christian Democrats from 13 European Countries signed up for the 8th ECPYN International Summer School (ISS), which took place in Paris between 11th and 15th July 2011. Six days in the light of Christian Democracy - with workshops, lectures, intensive brainstorming and a multitude of ambitious ideas - have led to the formation of accurate policy statements, proving that the summer gathering is the most effective way for the young generation to bring its vitality into European politics. In this cause, ECPYN is now an even stronger network of young people, based on a deep and active mutual understanding between countries.

Paris is an enchanting metropolis of picture-postcard scenery on the banks of the Seine, steeped in history and teeming with remnants of the past, from the grandeur of its monuments to the smallest details of every street and square. These were inspiring surroundings for all the participants from political parties, youth organisations and NGOs from almost every European region who gathered to take part in this year’s ECPYN summer school. On the first official day, after all the participants had arrived safely in the French capital and checked into a city centre hostel, there was a welcome reception offered by Denys Dhiver, ECPYN board member, and host of the event. This was an opportunity for old and new ISS attendees to wine and dine, and gain information, joy and energy for the challenging and rewarding days ahead of them.

Secularisation and integration

The professional part of the summer school started the following day, Tuesday: ‘Towards a new relationship between the private, public and sacred domains’ was a lecture given by Dr. Bart Labuschagne from The Netherlands, professor of philosophy of law at Leiden University. His was the first in a fascinating series of lecturers introducing an international approach on Christian policy. According to Dr. Bart, ‘It is in my view a matter of urgency that we come to a new understanding of the relationship between public and private, which essentially means that we should leave the worn-out liberal dichotomy of private/public behind us and aim at regarding society as a trichotomy.’ In his keynote address he introduced the main topics of the Summer School’s workshops: and Integration in Europe. A fruitful day of teamwork and insight into relevant topics of gravity was followed by a physical parallel later that afternoon: Foucault’s pendulum in the Panthéon was a highlight of a sightseeing trip in the heart of Paris, together with a tour of the interior of Saint-Louis des Invalides.

ISS runs for election

An interactive session opened on Wednesday by welcoming Christine Boutine, leader of the French Christian Democratic Party (Parti Chrétien-Démocrate), and candidate for the next presidential election in 2012. Inspired by this, lively dialogue continued when the ISS participants split into project groups to face the challenge of the week: outlining a strategy for various election campaigns with a PR leaflet and a promotional presentation. Here Christian creativity proved to be unsurpassable in political marketing also. This summer school in Western Europe also offered the floor to politicians from the other side of the continent – including Georgi Rukhadze from Georgia, International Secretary of the Christian Democratic Movement of Georgia (CDM), and lecturer at Ilia State University. He portrayed the prevalence of secularisation in his home country as the burdensome heritage of the former Soviet Union, and stated that it also appeared to be an oppressive element in most Eastern European states formerly under communist rule.

Parade, workshops and fireworks: the ECPYN gathering was fun as well!

As Napoleon Bonaparte said, ‘An army marches on its stomach’, and the ISS proved his point. This may be not always the case, however – especially in the Bastille Day parade down the Avenue des Champs-Elysees on 14 July. On Thursday morning, hundreds of armed French troops led by President Sarkozy and a fly-past of military aircraft provided a truly French experience for all participants, who themselves were also armed later in the day – this time with specialist hints. Four workshops led by professionals offered a wide range of training opportunities, from interesting areas of European policy such as local political anchoring, to Socratic dialogue, and ways of influencing parliamentary work. The day ended with a breathtaking firework display, which brought to an end the official events for the French National Day.

A mock European Parliament

On the last official day participants were given their most challenging task; they were asked to put all their experience at the ISS to use in identifying adequate responses to the topic of ‘Integration and Enlargement in the EU’. The product was not only in words but also in deeds: a substantial summer course ended with two working groups putting forward their thoughts in a plenary session on the designated portfolios in the European Parliament. This was excellent training for the role of the ECPYN’s future Christian politicians in real European platforms.

The conference resulted in two policy statements, on Future Enlargement of the European Union and Immigration Policy. These called for well-balanced and respectful enlargement, and a clearer and more equitable treatment of immigrants coming to Europe.

The 8th Summer School has also given the ECPYN the unique opportunity to spread its message about policies on secularisation, and on integration for a stronger Europe in the interest of all countries. It has gained backing to promote related youth initiatives as part of a political agenda driven by Christian principles, as this is the only path for a better Europe.

ECPF seminar on the Social-Market 9 September in Vilnius, Lithuania

Mon, 01 Aug 2011 16:37:42 +0200

The European Christian Political Foundation invites you to participate in an ECPF seminar on the 'Social Market'.
The event will take place at 9 September in Vilnius. It is a one-day event that will give participants the possibility to reflect on the contributions of the three speakers and discuss this theme.

It is clear that the social market as a core Christian-democrat concept offers an alternative in the current ongoing financial and economical crisis in Europe. At the same time it is also clear that this concept needs new reflection in order to deal with the new circumstances of the 21st century. We hope that this seminar will contribute to that goal.

If you have the wish to participate you can contact the ECPF manager, Johannes de Jong: secretariat@ecpf.info More details on the program will be placed on the ECPF website as soon as they are available.

Statement on situation in Belarus

Mon, 01 Aug 2011 16:37:12 +0200

During the 7th General Assembly of the European Christian Political Movement the members unanimously adopted a statement demanding from the Belarusian authorities to release all political prisoners arrested in the aftermath of the demonstrations of December 19, 2010 and to stop the persecution of democratic leaders and activists.

We, the participants of the 7th ECPM General Assembly in Bucharest, Romania, express our deep concerns regarding the situation with human rights, freedom and democracy in Belarus.

On 19 December 2010, after the highly disputed outcome of the presidential elections in Belarus, over 50,000 supporters of democracy dared to stand for their choice by coming to the peaceful protest actions in the centre of Minsk. The demonstration was brutally dispersed by the riot police. Around 700 people were arrested, including seven presidential candidates. Afterwards the country sank into a whirlwind of arrests and interrogations of democratic activists, human rights defenders, independent journalists, lawyers, etc. The court cases against the persons accused of organising and participating in mass riots ended up in long imprisonment for more than 30 political activists. Many of them suffered from abuse, mistreatment and inhuman conditions because of overcrowded cells, lack of medical care and a ban on receiving letters and visits from relatives and lawyers.

Among the accused were the Belarusian Christian Democracy Party (BCD) co-chairmen, Paval Sieviarynets and Vital Rymasheuski. Paval Sieviarynets spent over five months in the KGB prison; he requested ten times a meeting with a priest, which was denied each time. Now Paval awaits the court decision on his complaint to the unlawful sentence of three years in a forced labour camp. Vital Rymasheuski, who ran for president, after having spent several weeks in the KGB prison, has received a suspended sentence of two years imprisonment for organising and active participation in the activities that breached public order. Dozens of BCD activists were accused and served short sentences in prison.

We demand from the Belarusian authorities to release all political prisoners arrested in the aftermath of the demonstrations of December 19, 2010 and to stop the persecution of democratic leaders and activists!

We are greatly concerned about the situation of freedom of religion and conscience in Belarus and call upon the leaders of democratic governments in Europe as well as the European Parliament to condemn these court decisions concerning Paval Sieviarynets and Vital Rymasheuski and to increase the political pressure on the Belarusian authorities.

EUROPEAN CHRISTIAN POLITICAL MOVEMENT, 24 June 2011.

Symposium on Liberty of Faith and Conscience in Bucharest

Mon, 01 Aug 2011 16:36:50 +0200

Last Thursday, June 23, ECPM held a symposium on 'Liberty of Faith and Conscience' in the Palace of Parliament in Bucharest, together with the Ecumenical Prayer Group of the Romanian Parliament. Participants from all over Europe attended the lectures that addressed the theme from theological, social and political perspectives.

The symposium was opened with a session moderated by Gheorghe David MP, Secretary of the Senate. The Rt. Rev. Ciprian Câmpineanul, Patriarchal Vicar Bishop of the Romanian Orthodox Church, opened the session with prayer. The symposium was greeted by Teodor Baconschi, Minister of Foreign Affairs; Peeter Võsu, President of ECPM; HE, Mgr. Francisco Javier Lozano, Apostolic Nuncio to Romania and Moldova; Dr. Theol. Adrian Lemeni, Secretary of State for Religious Denominations; Mrs Prof. Ecaterina Andronescu MP; Leo van Doesburg; Prof. Cristian Sorin Dumitrescu, President of the Ecumenical Prayer Group.

The first plenary session was moderated by Mircea Lubanovici MP. Because Roger Kiska from Slovakia had fallen ill, his speech was delivered by David Fieldsend. The speech discussed the tactics used by certain lobby organisations to try to impose secular liberal ideas on Central en Eastern European societies and how these tactics can be countered. The speech included examples such as the Lautsi v Italy case at the European Court of Human Rights and the McCafferty Report in the Council of Europe. After this followed a speech by Dr. Ben Oni Ardelean, universitary lecturer at the Baptist Theological Institute in Bucharest, which dealed with the developments of the perception of the notion of freedom of conscience throughout history with a special focus on the age of Enlightenment. Nelu Burcae, President of the National Association for the Defense of Religious Liberty discussed the relation between conscious and freedom. The first session was concluded by a speech by Petru Andea MP, proffessor at the Politechnic University of Timisoara and member of the Academy of Romanian Scientists.

After the coffee break the second plenary session was moderated by Pavel Horj MP. Mrs Andrea Williams of Christian Concern for our Nation (UK) discussed how freedom of religion and conscious has been infringed on by the state in recent years for example by means of legislation regarding non-discrimination and hate-speech. Williams' examples of cases in the UK, served as a clear warning of what to expect in other countries in the near future. This was followed by Mrs Maria Dunca Moisin of the Provita Association, an orthodox pro-life organisation in Romania, who discussed freedom of conscience as related to medical ethics. Ms Ekaterina Smyslova, Vice-President of the Christian Public Movement 'Graceful Russia', discussed the development of the freedoms of religion and conscience in the last few decades in Russia and how Christians have responded to these developments. This second session was concluded by Valeriu Saitan MP, after which the attendents went on a guided tour of the Palace of Parliament before going to lunch.

In the afternoon there were several workshops which allowed for more interactive discussion. One workshop concerned the freedom of conscience with speakers such as Dorel Covaci MP, Andrea Williams (CCFON, UK) and Jonathan van Tongeren (ECPYN), the second concerned the freedom of faith and the role of the Church and was moderated by Catalin Buciumeanu and the third was about the 'European Values' project of the European Christian Political Foundation (ECPF) and was lead by Johannes de Jong and Sander Luitwieler.

After a coffee break a plenary session lead by David, Van Doesburg and Andea served to summarize the conclusions of the earlier sessions, before the symposium was finally concluded with a dinner.