"From April 2012, European citizens will enjoy a new right, which will give them a stronger voice in EU affairs when the European Citizens’ Initiative enters into force. From that moment on, they will be able to express their demands in a new, unprecedented way. By collecting one million signatures across Europe, they can call upon the European Commission to propose or change European legislation. The European Economic and Social Committee has been an advocate of citizens’ rights to participate since the beginning of the European project.
The Commission has proposed to designate 2013 as the European Year of Citizens. The year will mark the 20th anniversary of the establishment of Union citizenship under the Maastricht Treaty and will precede and prepare the European Parliament's elections in 2014.
The main objective of the Commission's proposal is to inform Union citizens about their rights as such. Particular importance is given to the right to move and reside freely, which is essential to enable individuals, businesses and society to benefit from the opportunities of the single market.
Staffan Nilsson speech in hearing of the EYC_ 26.01.2012_en
Ariane Couvreur and Laura Bosch (ECPAT International)
Presentation by Ariane Couvreur and Laura Bosch (ECPAT International) on the occasion of the EESC hearing on ’Protection of children against sexual abuse’
Regina Jensdottir (Council of Europe, co-ordinator of the "One in Five" and "Underwear rule" campaigns)
Presentation by Regina Jensdottir (Council of Europe, co-ordinator of the "One in Five" and "Underwear rule" campaigns) on the occasion of the EESC hearing on ’Protection of children against sexual abuse’
Jenny Pearce (National Working Group for sexually exploited children and young people)
Presentation by Jenny Pearce (National Working Group for sexually exploited children and young people) on the occasion of the EESC hearing on 'Protection of children against sexual abuse'
