Over 100 participants representing 44 European countries are meeting in Bled in these days (21st to 24th May), in Slovenia, for the yearly meeting of Caritas Europe, on the subject "From exclusion to equity in Europe". "Being aware that there are several social models in Europe", said Caritas Europe, a document supplying the basic principles "for a sustainable social system" was recently drawn up. "The most important objective pointed out the ecclesial charity body is social cohesion as society’s ability to ensure wellness to all the people, by reducing unfairness and avoiding focusing". The programme of the meeting includes also analyses of social protection, and several models will be examined in the light of the social doctrine of the Church, taking into account social and demographic changes in different countries. The event is also an opportunity to inform participants about a deeper collaboration between Caritas Europe and European institutions. A press conference is scheduled in Bled today (at 1.30, Golf Hotel). Among others, Erny Gillen, president of Caritas Europe; Vladimir Spidla, from the European Commission for employment, social affairs and equal opportunities; and Marjeta Cotman, Slovenian minister of work, family and social affairs are taking part in it.
