"Europe must spur its ability to create and innovate, for social and economic reasons": this is the belief behind the decision taken by Barroso’s Commission to proclaim 2009 the European Year of Creativity and Innovation. The news, that was spread some time ago, must now be confirmed by a formal vote by the EU Council and EU Parliament. 2010 instead will be the Year of the Fight against Poverty and Social Exclusion. According to the Commissioner for Culture and Education, Jan Figel’, the initiative taken today "is an effective measure, since it will raise public opinion and will disseminate information on good practices". According to the EU Executive, the modern world needs "a quick development of innovation" and research. In addition, "in a knowledge society marked by cultural diversity, the population needs qualifications and skills that will enable them to see change as an opportunity". "Teaching and education are key to this". Once the final decision is taken, the EU Commission will promote, along with the member states, the schedule of the initiatives for the Special year.
