report by Catholic aid agency Caritas Europa, has warned that
poverty in Europe is on the increase and urges steps to protect weak
and vulnerable social groups. "The
collapse of the Soviet Union has resulted in the emergence of over
150 million 'new poor' and prompted a redrawing of the development
map," said the report. The facts "cannot
reveal the depth of human pain and misery experienced by millions of
people living on islands of poverty - as pensioners, homeless
persons, long-term unemployed, lone parents - amidst a sea of plenty."
The facts cannot reveal the depth of human pain and misery experienced by millions of people living on islands of poverty - as pensioners, homeless persons, long-term unemployed, lone parents - amidst a sea of plenty.
Caritas Europe is one of seven regional arms of "Caritas Internationalis", an umbrella Catholic aid organization that represents relief and development agencies in more than 190 countries. The report includes detailed analysis of the situation in 43 European countries, focusing on six segments of the population: the unemployed; the working poor; single parents and large families; the elderly; asylum seekers and migrants; and minorities.
Statistical data in the study reveals a large income gap between men and women and also brings to light the impact discrimination, marginalization and social exclusion have on society. This picture has been provided by Caritas Europa member organizations, based on their work on the ground with the poorest and most needy. Patterns and trends that emerge from the hard facts highlight the disparities that exist across borders and within specific countries. The report concludes with major policy recommendations, which Caritas Europa and its members will present to the authorities of the European Union, its fifteen member states and other European countries.
The recommendations cover the following issues: employment, access to work, training; family policy; Policies for the elderly, including home care and pensions, especially in Central and Eastern Europe; solidarity of the European union with its eastern neighbors, structural funds and economic exchanges.
(from Independent Catholic News)