European Christian Political Movement

ECPM denounces outrages against Christian worshippers in Nigeria

Mon, 02 Jan 2012 16:21:35 +0100

The ECPM condemns in the strongest possible terms the series of bombings targeting churches in Nigeria this Christmas which have killed dozens of people. Our organisation calls upon the Islamist sect Boko Haram - which aims to impose sharia law across the country, and claims responsibility for the three church bombings, which have caused mass carnage for the second Christmas in a row - to respect local people's right to freedom of religion and conscience.

We exhort all sectarians involved to turn to the path of peaceful coexistence with the more than 80 million Christians in Nigeria. This is a country in which Christianity has flourished in recent decades and therefore democratic rights and freedom of religion must be protected both now and in the future by all possible means. The ECPM, in a spirit of total solidarity, offers its moral support for the country’s struggle against extremist sects and acts of terror. ECPM calls upon the Christian leaders in Nigeria to urge for calmness and peaceful actions in order to de-escalate the situation in Nigeria and to show that the Christian faith is a peaceful religion.

The European Christian Political Movement continues to proclaim and protect the right to freedom of faith and conscience, and it provides moral shelter for those brothers and sisters who have to suffer for their Christian conviction in Africa and around the world.

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

Christmas wish ECPM chairman Peeter Vosu

Sat, 24 Dec 2011 17:25:57 +0100

Christmas is undoubtedly the greatest celebration in the Western world. Children prepare for weeks learning songs and poems. Many of the most admired singers and music groups give Christmas concerts through the whole Christmas season. Some radio stations play only Christmas songs for days or weeks. We can speak about Christmas food, drinks, decorations, literature, movies, etc while Christmas music has become a distinct music style. Churches are all crowded with people in Christmas time. All these occurrences make Christmas an integral and familiar part of Western cultures, a major cultural phenomenon.

The world wide powerful celebration of Christmas reminds us that our societies have been founded on Christian roots, whether someone wants to recognize it or not.

Every Christmas season we hear arguments over if we really celebrate the birth of Jesus or if we mix elements of paganism and Christianity. Some argue that the proper date of the birth of Jesus is not known and some say that the winter is the most unlikely time for his birthday. Similarly we hear the argument that our cultures have probably been more influenced by the old Greek and Roman cultures and the French Revolution.

The overall celebration of Christmas sends us the message that it is not comparable with other influences on our history. Our calendar started with the birth of Jesus. Even the atheists have to use the same count of time around the world. The Bible is the most translated, printed and read book in the world. No philosophy or idea can compare to or even get close to it.

In many countries Christmas has been labeled differently: Season’s Greetings, Happy Holidays, Xmas, etc. In official communication many governments avoid any reference to the celebration of birth of Jesus. In fact, in many European countries it is considered politically incorrect.

In the new democracies, the countries that regained their freedom from totalitarian regimes in the 1990’s, people remember that their new freedom made it possible to celebrate Christmas again. Before, teachers had to make sure that none of the children would go to church. Some educators who dared to mention “Christmas” lost their jobs immediately. With freedom from the communist, atheist regime Christmas music was coming to the public space over the radio, TV and concert facilities.

Unfortunately the denial of Christian roots has caused the identity crises of the Western civilization. Let’s not give up the real celebration of Christmas that is a part of our identities. The tradition reminds us not only about our corporate connection to Christianity but also about our individual opportunity to have Christ in our lives.

Christmas gives us a chance to speak about the real meaning of the holiday. The package is still in our societies – we need to fill it with the content: with the message of redemption and hope for the future. The birth of Jesus marked the fulfillment of God’s redemption plan that he had carefully planned since the fall of man. It has opened the opportunity to us to restore the broken relationship with God.

May the message of Christmas give us confidence that we belong to His heavenly Kingdom! Our privilege is to be a part of his plans in shaping the future of our societies. Europe is founded on Christian values more than on anything else. We can be partners with the Lord in accomplishing his will in our spheres of responsibility. May Christmas this year be a time for recommitment and deepening our fellowship with the Lord and each other!

Peaceful Christmas and Blessed New Year!

Peeter Vosu
ECPM

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 Political Academy

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 23:48:24 +0100

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 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 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... >>>

Leo van Doesburg receives Award for Freedom of Religion and Conscience

Sat, 10 Dec 2011 12:14:27 +0100

The second Conscience and Freedom Award Gala took place in Timisoara, Romania, on the 3rd of December 2011.
The event is organized by the Conscience and Freedom Association in collaboration with the Parliamentary Committee on Human Rights, Religious Affairs and National Minorities, and aims to honor individuals who have espoused, established, defended and promoted the cause of freedom of religion and conscience throughout Romania.

Recipients of the Conscience and Freedom Award include politicians, academics, activists, writers, religious leaders, diplomats, scholars and other individuals with inspiring stories, who were involved in defending and promoting religious freedom and conscience through their activities, writings, legislative initiatives or acts of courage.

One of this year’s award nominees and winners, Leo van Doesburg, is a Dutchman who has been living in Romania for the past 12 years and, through his work for ECPM, has been very active in the advancement of Christian values in the political sphere and in promoting fruitful collaborations between diverse religious and political affiliations. The award “for the promotion and safeguard of freedom of religion and conscience” was presented to Mr. Doesburg by the Hon. Marius Dugulescu, a Member of the Romanian Parliament who attended in his capacity as Vice-Chair of the Committee on Human Rights, Religious Affairs and National Minorities and Chair of the Subcommittee on Human Dignity.

Leo van Doesburg’s statement on the recognition: “It was not only special because I have been living here for a long time, but because this is where people were shouting “Freedom” and “There is a God”, calling out for their fundamental freedoms! While Western Europe became more and more secular, Romania taught us a lesson that freedom is not to be taken for granted, and that it was bought with a high price! Unfortunately, even in Western Europe, freedom of religion and conscience are increasingly under attack. Therefore Romania, in my view, has a responsibility to promote and protect these fundamental freedoms not only in Romania but throughout Europe!”

The gala commenced with the opening remarks of the President of the Conscience and Freedom Association, Nelu Burcea, who emphasized the significance of the second Gala being organized in Timisoara. Given that the first edition of the Award Gala was held in March in the Romanian Parliament, Mr. Burcea underlined the symbolic implication of the second Gala taking place in Timisoara, the city that sparked the anti-communist revolution in December 1989. Being the first city to have made a call for Romanians to stand together for freedom, Timisoara has proved to be a beacon of hope and freedom for generations to come.

The introduction was followed by beautiful music performed by “Laudes Christi” Choir and Banat Philarmonica’s Choirmaster, Lucian Onita.

Other personalities awarded at the Gala were Senator Gheorghe David - MP, Deputy Dorel Covaci - MP, Titu Bojin - County Counselor and President of the Social Democratic Party in Timis, Francisc Boldea - Mayor of Lugoj, Stefan Dragulescu, MP – former Minister of Health and Rector of the University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Timisoara, Gabriel Ivanica – doctor, Gheorghe Catana – Principal of Logos Christian Highschool, Claudiu Ariesan – Lecturer at Faculty of Arts, History and Theology, West University, Vasile Tomoioaga – Editor of Timisoara daily newspaper, Nelu Mehedinti – former director of Voice of the Gospel Christian Radio Station, Oscar Berger - head of the Timisoara daily newspaper, Pastor Mihai Maur – President of the Adventist Chuch in Banat and Ionel Tutac – Secretary General of the Baptist Union in Romania.

European Christian Political Movement Eastern Representative Leo van Doesburg’s was granted the award in honor of his outstanding contribution to promote Christian values and the freedom of religion and conscience in Romania, such as the collaboration with the Ecumenical Prayer Group in the Romanian Parliament, the annual Romanian Prayer Breakfast and numerous other conferences and trainings regarding human dignity and moral values.

“It was for me a special honor to receive the award in Timisoara, a city characterized by good relations amongst different religious denominations, cultures, and nationalities; a city with beautiful architecture and parks, but most of all beautiful people. The atheistic, communistic regime could not destroy the tolerance, beauty and heritage of the city. I do not think it is surprising that the revolution started there almost 22 years ago. Timisoara is what I consider home and a cornerstone for the ECPM work in East Europe.” (more information see also: http://www.constiintasilibertate.ro/)

ECPM REACTION ON EUROPEAN COMMISSION ECONOMIC GOVERNANCE PROPOSALS

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 16:03:55 +0100

PLACING ECONOMY BEFORE DEMOCRACY IS NOT THE LONG-TERM SOLUTION TO THE CRISIS.

The ECPM is worried that the Economic Governance proposals published by the European Commission on 23 November will seriously harm the democratic involvement of Europe's citizens in the national and European political processes and decision making. The ECPM understands the challenges the EU is facing and the need for the European Commission to respond to these challenges. In the view of the ECPM however, placing economy before democracy is not the long-term solution Europe needs to get out of the economic crisis.

Proposals that place parliaments behind unelected fiscal councils and force governments to submit budgets to the EC before submitting it to their own parliaments will undoubtedly lead to less democratic influence by the voters. The fact that these policies can be accepted by elected representatives does not change their consequences. The proposals of the EC also imply that the decisions of non-elected financial and economic experts are non-ideological but this is a position the ECPM does not share. These decisions will also be choices based on ideas regarding the economy and thus political decisions that need democratic checks and balances. The ECPM is concerned that the proposed processes lead to a loss of influence of national parliaments without new democratic control mechanisms to repair this democratic deficit. The consequence of these proposals is a loss of involvement and responsibility of Europe’s citizens.

The reverse is needed to get Europe back on track. People need to feel more responsible, not less, in dealing with the challenges Europe is facing. For this they need to have the real opportunity to be responsible. To change the economic situation in the long term real ‘ownership’ is needed in the broadest sense of the word. Real ownership in politics, economy and society is necessary for a responsible society. Real ownership and personal responsibility in terms of property and personal economy is in our view the best medicine against debt and irresponsible behavior. For this it is important that the feeling of powerlessness towards the political and economic processes is addressed effectively in order to empower people and restore responsibility.

"While understanding the need for the European Commission to act, ECPM believes that more, not less, responsibility to the people is the long-term solution for the crisis. "

European co-ordination is required to prevent new excesses in the financial markets and to find ways that make financial markets return to their original supportive role to the real economy of entrepreneurs, workers, production and families. Starting in Europe, the EU can take up its global role and look for global allies to restore sanity to the economy. We believe that this direction will restore confidence in the European project and restore democratic responsibility.

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.

Beyond Individualism - Book now

Thu, 17 Nov 2011 15:51:03 +0100

On Friday 25 & Saturday 26 November the Beyond Individualism event will take place in London, United Kingdom.

New speakers have been added recently to the packed programme. Many speakers from several political organisations and different denominational backgrounds will contribute to the colloquium & conference, making Beyond Individualism the Christian political event of the year in Britain!

ECPM is very pleased with the large response to the London event. Over 130 attendents have already registered for the conference. Places are becoming scare so we urge you to book as soon as possible on the Beyond Individualism website.

If you want to read more about the speakers you can go to the following page.

The Beyond Individualism event is co-hosted by Christian Concern and the Christian Peoples Alliance. It also has the support of UK-based organisations, CARE, The Jubilee Centre, The Relationships Foundation and THEOS.

ECPM hopes to see you soon in London!

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

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.

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!

Christian Democrats in Eastern Europe concerned about the situation in Belarus

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 09:47:40 +0100

The Association of Christian Democrats in Europe, existing out of the Christian Democratic People's Party from Moldova, Christian Democratic Union of Armenia, Christian Democratic Union of Latvia, Christian Democratic Union of Ukraine, Christian Democratic Movement of Georgia, Christian Public Movement , Christian Democratic Party of Belarus, expressed their concerns about the situation in Belarus in a joined declaration on their meeting on 22 October in Chisinau. Vladimir Plamadeala, board member of the ECPM participated to this meeting.

The Association of Christian Democrats in Eastern Europe expresses concern in respect to the condition of the human rights and freedoms created in Belarus, especially after the presidential elections of December 19, 2010.

The rights to freedom of assembly and free speech continue to be violated in this country. In the last months in the Republic of Belarus freedom of conscience and religious rights were seriously violated, in many parts of the country the Prosecutors Office issued official warnings on the bases of art. 193.1 of the Criminal Code, which provides imprisonment for up to two years for Protestant Christians, performing activities within unregistered religious and political organizations or public associations.

Opposition leaders continue to be detained, among them Paul Severineţ, the party leader of “Christian Democracy in Belarus”, Nicolai Statkevici and Andrei Sanikov, ex-presidential candidates in recent elections, Alesi Beleaţkii, Vice-President of International Federation for Human Rights, President of the Center for Human Rights "Vesna", Zmiţer Daşkevici, leader of the "Youth Front", other political and civic activists, recognized by the Belarusian and international organizations for human rights as political prisoners.

We also express our concern about the fact that the legislation of Belarus has suffered a series of changes without any prior public discussion, aimed at restricting the rights and liberties of the citizens and the onset of even harsher repression from behalf of law enforcement authorities.

The listed facts raise the concern of the international community regarding the situation of observing democratic standards and human rights in Belarus.

Expressing our solidarity with the international community's position, we call on Belarusian authorities to respect fundamental human rights, release and rehabilitate the opposition leaders and civic activists.

Christian Democratic People’s Party from Moldova
Christian Democratic Union of Armenia
Christian Democratic Union of Latvia
Christian Democratic Union of Ukraine
Christian Democratic Movement of Georgia
Christian Public Movement "Благодатная Россия"
Christian Democratic Party of Belarus

Chisinau
October 22, 2011

ECPF conference in Timisoara: 'Revitalizing Christian Values in Europe'

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 15:25:35 +0200

At the last ECPM conference in Bucharest (24 June 2011), the foundation of the ECPM, the ECPF, presented its first study project 'Europe's Values'. This will also be the theme of the ECPF conference in Timisoara, Romania.

The conference will take place between 9 and 11 November.

All information regarding this conference you can find at the website of the European Christian Political Foundation: www.ecpf.info/timisoara

Beyond Individualism

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 16:25:59 +0200

The European Christian Political Movement invites you to our coming two-day conference in London.

On 25 and 26 November speakers like Philip Blond, Os Guinness, Lord Glasman, Eimert van Middelkoop and many others will elaborate on the theme: 'Beyond Individualism'

During this two-day event, which is co-hosted by Christian Concern and Christian Peoples Alliance (CPA), the problems of modern day Europe will be discussed and, more importantly, alternatives based on Christian values will be presented.

The ECPM warmly invites you to our conference. For more information and booking you can go to beyondindividualism.org

We hope to see you in London this November!

Civil organizations in Bulgaria warn for the problems created by surrogate motherhood

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 16:08:46 +0200

The civil organization "Association community and values" and the Foundation "Center for legal aid - Voice in Bulgaria" sent a Statement to the governing authorities concerning the dangers of legalizing surrogate motherhood that the current legislation conceals.

In the sent Statement the civil organizations inform about the consequences of the legalization of the surrogate motherhood, among which: the interruption of the strong natural connection between the surrogate mother and the child; placing the rights of the receiving couple above the rights of the child and the surrogate mother, the full rights over the surrogate mother during the pregnancy, including to be forced to abort the child when diagnosed with disease or disorder and in some cases when the sex of the child does not coincide with the parents' wish.

According to representatives of the civil organizations, the legalization of the surrogate motherhood leads to confusion of the family roles and relationships. They point at some cases in countries where surrogacy is legal where grandmothers are giving birth to their own grandchildren (Russia) or where a baby who is born two years after the death of the “order “ mother (Israel) .

The civil organizations point that this kind of business relationships open a door for serious abuses and exploitations of a certain socially disadvantaged group. When the birth of a child turns into a job, this will increase the pressure from the other family members on women to provide income by giving their wombs “for rent”.

By the legalization of surrogacy, “payment of reasonable expenses” is offered to the surrogate mother which does not put clear limits and enables abuse and corruption. This lowers the understanding of reproduction to contractual business relationships, according to the organizations’ statement.

The child and the surrogate mother are treated as a biological goods for which is paid. This tramples on the rights of the child as a human being, guaranteed by the Declaration on the rights of the child (art.6 and art.9). Commercial surrogacy is prohibited also by the Brussels Declaration of the World Medical Association.

The civil organizations point in their letter that the surrogate motherhood is punishable by the law in many countries such as Austria, Norway, Sweden, France, Hungary, Italy, Switzerland, Germany, Canada and others. They are convinced that the surrogate motherhood harms women’s dignity and damages their physical and mental health. They insist on voting against the proposed amendments which will legitimize the surrogacy.

Last week, parliament access of the representative from the Association Society and Values and another civil organization (both against the surrogacy) to the Round table discussion on the surrogacy was denied . Despite their pre-registration, they were returned due to “lack of room” while later representatives supporting the proposed legislation were welcomed.

Is important that society and the government are clearly informed about the risks and consequences of this type “business” for the children, the surrogate mothers and their families and also about the bitter experience in countries where “the wombs for rent” are allowed.

The proposed changes for legalizing the surrogacy are approved already by three different governing commissions and will be up for a vote in the parliament soon.

Last week twenty representatives of civil organizations, including psychologists, therapists, scientists and others sent an Open letter to the government against legalizing the surrogacy in Bulgaria. ( http://www.peticiq.com/deca_semeistvo )

The same news in Bulgarian on some internet media, please copy the address in your browser:

http://society.actualno.com/news_362672.html

http://www.vesti.bg/index.phtml?tid=40&oid=4173391

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.

Report International Berlin Gathering

Tue, 19 Jul 2011 15:31:28 +0200

The International Berlin Gathering brought nearly four hundred German and international politicians to the capital of Germany from June 30 to July 2, 2011. The annual event took place for the 16th time, organized by the Prayer Breakfast Group, mainly initiated by the Christian Democrats and included other parties.

ECPM chairman Peeter Vosu was also present and he wrote a small report for the ECPM website.

Traditionally, the opening session took place in the Bundestag (The Federal Parliament), followed by a festive dinner in Johannesstift (a suburb of Berlin). The second day of the Gathering started with the International Prayer Breakfast in historical Adlon Hotel, followed by plenary sessions, seminars and workshops. All guests from different religious backgrounds were invited to take part in a church service at Johannesstift in the afternoon of the third conference day. The gathering ended with a barbecue night on July 2.

The International Berlin Gathering has become the biggest Christian political event in Europe. Each year up to 400 politicians mainly from Europe but also from Africa, Asia and the Americas gather to listen to the topic of the year, to discuss, and to pray together. The event also makes a good platform for meeting with Christian politicians from all over the world and having fellowship together. Rudolf Decker, a former MP founded the Berlin Gathering and is the main organizer of the event. Dr. Andreas Jahn is the executive manager.

The main theme of the Berlin Gatherings is: „Responsibility Before God and Man” – a quote from the Constitution of Germany. Each year a different sub theme is added to it – this time it was: „And who is my neighbour: in my family, in my country, in the world?” The parable of the Good Samaritan was cited from the Bible as the introduction to the topic in the Bundestag.

Members of the Bundestag, Anette Hübinger, Patrick Meinhardt, Ernst-Reinhard Beck, Johannes Selle and Dieter Grasedieck, and the main organizer of the event, the former MP Rudolf Decker, moderated the sessions. Dr. Guido Westerwelle, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Germany, Dr. Norbert Lammert, President of the Bundestag, Volker Kauder, Chairman of the CDU, and several other Members of the German Government and Parliament contributed to the Gathering. Many of the guests came from African countries, like Dr. Kakule Molo, Senator of Dem. Rep. Of Congo, and Sylvestre Ntibantunganya, a former President of Burundi. Among the participants were also several international MPs and Members of Government.

Dr. Guido Westerwelle welcomed all the international guests to Germany on behalf of the government of the country. He spoke about the Germans’ role to serve peace and for the active defence of the human rights in the world. He mentioned his last year’s trip to Sudan as one of the success stories. He also named religious freedom as a universal right where it is right to intervene internationally. “I am angered by honour killing. There is no justification to murder,” said Westerwelle. The FM of Germany also mentioned the situation in Iraq, where the state does not intervene when Christians are persecuted. He had named the problem to the President of Iraq during his last visit there. Dr. Westerwelle ended his speech with a clear statement that he is a member of the Christian church and confesses his faith publicly.

Paul Magnuson, a Federal Court Judge from the US spoke on the prayer for rulers and leaders at the Prayer Breakfast. Richard McCormack, Director of Bank of America and Hans-Joachim Tonnellier, CEO of Volksbank of Germany spoke about responsible handling of finances in the uncertain economic situation of the world. Both of them named their personal faith in the Lord as an important part of their identity and a major factor for their decision making process.

Most of the sessions took place around meals or snack tables that gave a relaxed feeling and formed natural conversation groups of different people. People from nearly 40 different countries met each other in open and friendly atmosphere. Forming new relationships was also one of the goals of the event. All the participants expressed their hope to come to Berlin next year again.

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.

ECPM conference and General Assembly next week

Thu, 16 Jun 2011 17:42:44 +0200

On 23 June, the European Christian Political Movement organizes a conference on Liberty of Faith and Conscience. The next day the 7th Annual General Assembly takes place. Registration for both these events is still open. There are a few places left for both days and the excursion on Saturday.

Please register as soon as possible on by clicking here.

Speaking during the 23th of June will be Andrea Williams (Christian concern for our nation, UK), Ekaterina Smyslova (Lawyer, Russia) and Roger Kiska (Alliance Defense Fund, Slovakia). Read more about the speakers here!

The conference and General Assembly is an excellent place for formal and informal discussions and meeting old friends and colleagues. All members will also be informed about the development of the recently founded European Christian Political Foundation (ECPF).

ECPM hopes to see you next week in Bucharest!

ECPM: 'No need for European intervention in Hungary'

Fri, 29 Apr 2011 13:04:41 +0200

After reading the new Hungarian constitution that the Hungarian government provided, the European Christian Political Movement (ECPM) calls on the European Commission to respect the new constitution of Hungary and Hungarian sovereignty and to ignore left-liberal calls to intervene or react at this new constitution.

The explanatory document posted by ECPM makes it crystal clear that Hungary wants to be and will be a democratic nation that respects the rule of law, respects diversity and protects all basic freedoms and values that are shared throughout Europe. The current opposition parties in the Hungarian parliament decided not to be part of the process and debates leading to a new constitution and cannot reverse this step via the European institutions.

The ECPM is worried about the fact that left-liberal forces apparently think that they can enforce their own political ideas at every member-state. Intervention now from the EC would create a precedent that would lead to a situation in which the European institutions would enforce on member-states a very specific set of political convictions that are not even part of European agreements or laws. This kind of intervention would ignore the national democracy and alienate many people from the European co-operation.

The ECPM wishes the EC all wisdom and hopes that sound thinking will prevail in this situation.

New Hungarian Constitution protects life and traditional marriage

Wed, 20 Apr 2011 11:23:33 +0200

The new Hungarian constitution states that the marriage is seen as a union between a man and a woman (article K) and also makes Human Dignity one of its core elements:
"Human dignity shall be inviolable. Everyone shall have the right to life and human dignity; the life of the foetus shall be protected from the moment of conception." (art II)

In 2010, a drafting process for a new constitution began to take place. The drafting process was finalized by April 11, 2011, and was adopted by the Parliament on April 18. The new constitution is expected to be signed into law by Pál Schmitt on April 25 and will go into effect on January 1, 2012.
On February 4, 2011, a National Consultative Body was set up with József Szájer as head, and János Csák, Hungarian ambassador to the United Kingdom, Zsigmond Járai, chairman of the supervisory board of the National Bank of Hungary, József Pálinkás, president of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, and Katalin Szili, former house speaker, as members.

The ECPM congratulates Hungary with the anchoring of these items in the constitution. We hope that this will be an inspiring example for other European countries to stand for basic values as Human Dignity and the traditional definition of marriage.

To read the whole new constitution in English, please go to:

http://tasz.hu/files/tasz/imce/alternative_translation_of_the_draft_constituion.pdf

Finnish Christian-Democrats stable in political upheaval

Tue, 19 Apr 2011 12:54:22 +0200

The Finnish Christian-Democrats were able to keep six seats in the Finnish national parliament in an election that showed a big shift in the Finnish political landscape. Due to the landslide victory of the Perussuomalaiset (True Finns) all other parties lost some ground in these elections. The ECPM congratulates all re-elected and newly electeded MP's of the Finnish Christian-Democrats and we convey our thanks to those who were not re-elected for their service and hard work to give Christian-Democracy a voice in Finland. We wish the Finnish Christian-Democrats inspiration and courage in their endeavours in the coming years.

Secularisation and Integration

Tue, 10 May 2011 18:39:00 +0200

ECPYN is pleased to announce that the 8th International Summer School will take place in Paris, France from July 11 till 16, 2011. The theme of this year's summer school is "Secularisation and Integration". About 70 participants from all over Europe attend the summer school, which takes place in a different country each year. International speakers with backgrounds in politics or academia lecture on political and societal topics from a Christian Democratic perspective.

This year the main theme will be discussed with top politicians and with philosophers, and the discussion will be nourished with applied experience from the political field. This event is thus a unique experience for all young politicians that want to acquire more knowledge of Christian democracy and ways to apply it.

The International Summer School also offers workshops for the participants to improve themselves in several political skills. The aim is for them to get more know-how and ability for their future political responsibilities. These workshops are focusing on speech delivery, political campaign strategy, fund raising, political advocacy, et cetera.

This summer school will give a great opportunity for all participants to take part in the discussion about Christian democracy and its position regarding secularisation and integration issues in Europe. The participants will also learn a lot about the political processes in the EU.

Programme and registration are available on www.ecpyn.org/summerschool.

Will the EU define marriage? Your action is needed!

Thu, 14 Apr 2011 15:09:36 +0200

Enforced EU-wide recognition of same-sex marriage?

The European Christian Political Foundation (www.ecpf.info) wants to draw your attention to a report done by European Dignity Watch (www.europeandignitywatch.org) on a new proposal from the European Commission regarding the automatic recognition of civil status documents that could lead to a situation in which the EU member states will no longer define marriage.

Instead, member states could be forced to recognize forms of “marriage”, civil partnerships, same-sex adoption and other practices, even if these contradict their national laws and public order.

European Dignity Watch issued an analysis of the Greenpaper, which you find below. The analysis is meant to facilitate answers that can be sent to the European Commission as reaction to the public consultation (Greenpaper). The ECPM asks all decision makers on national and European level to take note of this report and take action in their own political body. If the ideas in this green paper would become EU policy, all action taken on the national level to safeguard the definition of marriage on the national level will become pointless.

However, your action can make a big difference since this proposal is now in its first stage of the political process. The report of European Dignity Watch will help you to take action. We need to react to the call for public consultation by the Commission, pointing out the severe consequences of an automatic mutual recognition of civil status documents on family policy and the infringement of the principle of subsidiarity.

This EDW report (and especially their analysis in six languages) can help you to convince people to protect subsidiarity and gives you analytical and very practical advice in how to react and to whom precisely in the European Commission.

European Dignity Watch report on the recognition of civil status documents:

The European Commission is pushing for “automatic mutual recognition” of public documents in all EU Member States. Among them are marriage and adoption documents. Automatic recognition, as practical as it may seem at first a glance, entails a severe danger: that of a forced recognition of civil unions, same-sex marriages and corresponding adoption rights by all Member States – even if this goes against their national laws and public order.

A public consultation (Green Paper) on the topic has been opened by the Commission. Every NGO, group or individual can participate! In this email, we provide you with all the necessary information you may need to send your opinion to the Commission. A solid analysis of the questions asked by the Commission will help you to frame your answer. All information is available in six languages: English, French, Spanish, Italian, Polish and German.

Much is at stake!We urge you to help advocate for freedom and the principle of subsidiarity!

This is how you can get involved:

•Write your answer to the Commission by April 31, 2011, at the latest. Find here all information you need for this.

•Use the six language versions of the analysis on our website and spread the word among your network.

•Contact your local politicians, provide them with our information and ask them to get involved.

Abstract

The purpose of the Green Paper, issued by the European Commission on December 14, 2010, is to achieve a cross-border harmonization of public and civil status documents in order to “reduce bureaucracy”. There is no doubt that a reasonable reduction of bureaucracy is desirable within the EU. However, the simplistic audit of the issues involved—as conducted by the Commission in its Green Paper—leads to an even greater issue: that of compelling EU Member States to recognize same-sex civil unions (or same-sex adoption) even when this goes against their national laws and public morality (and despite the fact that Member States are theoretically protected against such coercion by Article 81.3 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union). Since family law is a competency of each Member State—and not of the EU—the imposition of a recognition of civil unions and other practises that contradict their domestic public morality would constitute a serious infringement of national sovereignty and a violation of the principle of subsidiarity. This is precisely the danger posed by the idea of “automatic mutual recognition” of public documents, as the European Commission seems to suggest.

What is a Green Paper?

A Green Paper is a broad public consultation on the role of the EU in a certain policy field. Every citizen and organization can contribute their opinion. A Green Paper is an explicit invitation for organizations, public and private entities, and individuals to contribute to the opinion-making process of the European Commission on a specific topic. The contributions are usually taken into account by the European Commission to define further policy strategies in the field concerned.

Your contribution is needed

Each and every contribution on this public consultation is important. If you are an NGO or a civil society organization, please submit your response to the Commission’s Green Paper in the name of your organization. If you are an individual, please submit your answer in your own name, stating your full name and address. In our analysis of the Green Paper, we have provided suggestions for possible responses to the questions contained in the document.

Find here our propositions to write an answer.

Deadline for responses: 30 April 2011.

Answers need to be sent to:

European Commission Directorate-General for Justice

Unit A1 - Judicial Cooperation in Civil Matters

B-1049 Brussels

Fax No: + 32-2/299 64.57

E-mail: JUST-COOP-JUDICIAIRE-CIVILE@ec.europa.eu