The European Caravan of Legality arrives at the European Institutions

On Friday 17 February, the European Economic and Social Committee opened its doors to welcome 150 young people to discuss actions against organized crime. The so-called European Caravan of Legality is an Anti-Mafia initiative that was first promoted by the Italian organization"Arci" in 1994, while a few years later the organization "Cultura contro camorra" joined its forces as well.

This year following the tragic attacks in Brussels and Paris and the risk of stigmatization of particular neighborhoods and local people, the European Caravan decided to focus on issues related to democracy, participation and resistance against any form of manipulation. The Caravan is now working closely, for the past 5 years, with the "Ligue de l'enseignement" in France.

The EESC president had the opportunity to address the young people with his opening speech by stating that "We should not forget the achievements of the European Union such as Erasmus, youth mobility and social security. Criticism can be truly useful only when it is constructive".

In conclusion, Georges Dassis highlighted that it is imperative for the EU to do everything possible in order to ensure the economic and social cohesion and to make sure that the next generation enjoys a peaceful and prosperous Europe.