THE MEMBERS of the European Parliament welcomed the decision that 2015 will become the European Year for Development (EYD), carrying the motto “Our world, our future, our dignity”. According to them, it is a great opportunity to remind Europeans that the EU is the global leader in the fight against famine and removing poverty in the world, the TASR newswire wrote in November 2014.
According to MEPs, the EYD should anchor the “pro-development thinking” in all important institutions across the world.
“This first ever European Year dealing with the EU’s external action will provide an unparalleled opportunity to engage with citizens in the EU’s contribution to fighting hunger and eradicating poverty worldwide,” said Development Committee chair Linda McAvan, as quoted by TASR.
Head of the coordination group of the EP for EYD became Luxembourgian liberal MEP Charles Goerens. He will be submitting proposals of the MEPs to the participation of the EP in activities in favour of the EYD.
The EP will actively attend various activities, from cooperation with citizens to collaboration with national parliaments. It will also represent the EU at several international negotiations dealing with development, TASR wrote.