The gains made by the European People's Party (EPP) in the 2009 European Parliament elections hav... more The gains made by the European People's Party (EPP) in the 2009 European Parliament elections have given the party a new opportunity to advance its message. In the face of the weaknesses of current social models made apparent by the recent economic crisis, globalisation and changes in European society, Christian democracy could provide an alternative that balances the demands of a globalising world order and the desire to preserve the European social model. Further policy research is needed; however, recent socioeconomic challenges and the political success of the EPP have shown that Christian democracy has a bright future. Keywords Christian democracy Á Globalisation Á Economic and social crisis Á Social market economy Á European social model A new and compelling mandate
Jos van Gennip argues that finding resources for post-conflict reconstruction and development obv... more Jos van Gennip argues that finding resources for post-conflict reconstruction and development obviously poses a critical challenge and the international community must play a part. However, rather than the development of the countries it is too often the strategic interests of large western donor countries that ultimately determine the level of aid. Successful security and development has to face these
This paper argues that the Eu and its institutions are highly relevant to addressing the question... more This paper argues that the Eu and its institutions are highly relevant to addressing the questions of ethics and religion. although in general, policy matters should be dealt with at the lowest possible level, some matters concerning religion and ethics are best dealt with by a common approach at the Eu level of decision-making. applying a test of subsidiarity, the paper examines areas such as the economy, human rights, our multi-ethnic and multi-religious societies, and the relationship with the orthodox churches. The paper contends that the Eu member states and member parties of the Epp should lead the debate on ethics, values and religion. within the atmosphere of pluralism, dialogue and tolerance, the Epp should continuously cherish its Christian roots and values while responding to the economic, social and cultural realities of the day. The party should also leave enough room for those that belong to non-Christian religions and have other beliefs and convictions.
On 18 October 2012, the European People's Party (EPP) Congress in Bucharest approved a new progra... more On 18 October 2012, the European People's Party (EPP) Congress in Bucharest approved a new programme of basic principles to replace the earlier Athens Programme. The new Bucharest Programme is based on the same principal choices and characteristics that have defined the EPP from its foundation; at the same time, it reflects the party's broadening to include a number of new member parties and adapt to the new challenges faced by European politics, economy and society. Yet the new Platform, the result of two and a half years' work by an ad hoc committee, should not be the end of our reflections and proposals. On the contrary, it should generate an intensive round of discussions, studies and publications on its four main elements: values, innovation, a strong Europe and vital communities. This article summarises the central elements of the new EPP Platform. Together, these elements can reposition the EPP as the political movement for the future, while at the same time presenting a vision and a solution to the challenges of our time.
The new coalition agreement presents some striking reforms in the field of international cooperat... more The new coalition agreement presents some striking reforms in the field of international cooperation. One ambition is to establish clearer links between policy addressing sustainability, poverty reduction and security. The creation of the new post of Minister for International Trade and Development Cooperation underlines that there is indeed a relationship between international trade and poverty. However, the ambitious programme is accompanied by a 25% reduction in the development cooperation budget. It seems that the government hopes to do much more with much less funding. In this discussion paper, experts from the worlds of research, politics and the civil society propose a far-reaching reform of international cooperation. Innovation, expansion (in terms of both effort and resources) and stronger coordination are cited as the three strands which will combine to create an effective, integrated approach to poverty reduction, sustainability and security. It must be remembered that in...
This article discusses whether Christian social thinking is obsolete in the age of globalisation ... more This article discusses whether Christian social thinking is obsolete in the age of globalisation or whether it continues to provide answers to the challenges of the modern world. Some people believe that the heydays of a Christian social alternative to capitalism or to state socialism are over following its successes in the middle of the twentieth century. Social protection and the emancipation of the working class have been achieved, and the distribution of wealth and income has reached a fair level throughout Europe. This article rejects this view and argues that Christian social thinking and its translation into political positions do not belong exclusively to a specific socio-economic phase of history or to a specific socio-economic system. The article also provides Christian social remedies for five aspects of globalisation: financialisation, the distribution of the fruits of globalisation, automation, control mechanisms and environmental protection.
The gains made by the European People's Party (EPP) in the 2009 European Parliament elections... more The gains made by the European People's Party (EPP) in the 2009 European Parliament elections have given the party a new opportunity to advance its message. In the face of the weaknesses of current social models made apparent by the recent economic crisis, globalisation and changes in European society, Christian democracy could provide an alternative that balances the demands of a globalising world order and the desire to preserve the European social model. Further policy research is needed; however, recent socio-economic challenges and the political success of the EPP have shown that Christian democracy has a bright future.
The Constantinos Karamanlis Institute for Democracy Series on European and International Affairs, 2009
This chapter analyses major societal changes that are currently taking place and their effects on... more This chapter analyses major societal changes that are currently taking place and their effects on the political agenda and the institutional framework of current society. By taking a thorough look at the three main new challenges—socio-cultural, socio-economic and security—it examines whether the changes now underway are the compatible with the values of society and its ideals for the future. The
On 18 October 2012, the European People's Party (EPP) Congress in Bucharest approved a new progra... more On 18 October 2012, the European People's Party (EPP) Congress in Bucharest approved a new programme of basic principles to replace the earlier Athens Programme. The new Bucharest Programme is based on the same principal choices and characteristics that have defined the EPP from its foundation; at the same time, it reflects the party's broadening to include a number of new member parties and adapt to the new challenges faced by European politics, economy and society. Yet the new Platform, the result of two and a half years' work by an ad hoc committee, should not be the end of our reflections and proposals. On the contrary, it should generate an intensive round of discussions, studies and publications on its four main elements: values, innovation, a strong Europe and vital communities. This article summarises the central elements of the new EPP Platform. Together, these elements can reposition the EPP as the political movement for the future, while at the same time presenting a vision and a solution to the challenges of our time.
Jos van Gennip argues that finding resources for post-conflict reconstruction and development obv... more Jos van Gennip argues that finding resources for post-conflict reconstruction and development obviously poses a critical challenge and the international community must play a part. However, rather than the development of the countries it is too often the strategic interests of large western donor countries that ultimately determine the level of aid. Successful security and development has to face these
In preparation for this special issue, the Editor asked a number of people of diverse generations... more In preparation for this special issue, the Editor asked a number of people of diverse generations, viewpoints and locations who have contributed in important ways to the Society for International Development and the journal Development over the years to respond to a series of questions: 1. How did they respond to the power of ideas as the 'line' for the journal issue, in particular, the constant message of Development about the importance of human-focused development and the need to explore alternatives to mainstream development? 2. Which ideas or policies did they see SID or Development as the quarterly journal of SID bring to the fore as cutting edge that led to real change.Which ideas need to be voiced that are not yet heard or acted upon? 3. What are some of the tensions in the development discourse, such as the tensions between North and South, between advocacy groups and policy groups, etc.? Who are the key actors in development today? What are the pressing issues in development today?
This paper argues that the Eu and its institutions are highly relevant to addressing the question... more This paper argues that the Eu and its institutions are highly relevant to addressing the questions of ethics and religion. although in general, policy matters should be dealt with at the lowest possible level, some matters concerning religion and ethics are best dealt with by a common approach at the Eu level of decision-making. applying a test of subsidiarity, the paper examines areas such as the economy, human rights, our multi-ethnic and multi-religious societies, and the relationship with the orthodox churches. The paper contends that the Eu member states and member parties of the Epp should lead the debate on ethics, values and religion. within the atmosphere of pluralism, dialogue and tolerance, the Epp should continuously cherish its Christian roots and values while responding to the economic, social and cultural realities of the day. The party should also leave enough room for those that belong to non-Christian religions and have other beliefs and convictions.
The gains made by the European People's Party (EPP) in the 2009 European Parliament elections hav... more The gains made by the European People's Party (EPP) in the 2009 European Parliament elections have given the party a new opportunity to advance its message. In the face of the weaknesses of current social models made apparent by the recent economic crisis, globalisation and changes in European society, Christian democracy could provide an alternative that balances the demands of a globalising world order and the desire to preserve the European social model. Further policy research is needed; however, recent socioeconomic challenges and the political success of the EPP have shown that Christian democracy has a bright future. Keywords Christian democracy Á Globalisation Á Economic and social crisis Á Social market economy Á European social model A new and compelling mandate
Jos van Gennip argues that finding resources for post-conflict reconstruction and development obv... more Jos van Gennip argues that finding resources for post-conflict reconstruction and development obviously poses a critical challenge and the international community must play a part. However, rather than the development of the countries it is too often the strategic interests of large western donor countries that ultimately determine the level of aid. Successful security and development has to face these
This paper argues that the Eu and its institutions are highly relevant to addressing the question... more This paper argues that the Eu and its institutions are highly relevant to addressing the questions of ethics and religion. although in general, policy matters should be dealt with at the lowest possible level, some matters concerning religion and ethics are best dealt with by a common approach at the Eu level of decision-making. applying a test of subsidiarity, the paper examines areas such as the economy, human rights, our multi-ethnic and multi-religious societies, and the relationship with the orthodox churches. The paper contends that the Eu member states and member parties of the Epp should lead the debate on ethics, values and religion. within the atmosphere of pluralism, dialogue and tolerance, the Epp should continuously cherish its Christian roots and values while responding to the economic, social and cultural realities of the day. The party should also leave enough room for those that belong to non-Christian religions and have other beliefs and convictions.
On 18 October 2012, the European People's Party (EPP) Congress in Bucharest approved a new progra... more On 18 October 2012, the European People's Party (EPP) Congress in Bucharest approved a new programme of basic principles to replace the earlier Athens Programme. The new Bucharest Programme is based on the same principal choices and characteristics that have defined the EPP from its foundation; at the same time, it reflects the party's broadening to include a number of new member parties and adapt to the new challenges faced by European politics, economy and society. Yet the new Platform, the result of two and a half years' work by an ad hoc committee, should not be the end of our reflections and proposals. On the contrary, it should generate an intensive round of discussions, studies and publications on its four main elements: values, innovation, a strong Europe and vital communities. This article summarises the central elements of the new EPP Platform. Together, these elements can reposition the EPP as the political movement for the future, while at the same time presenting a vision and a solution to the challenges of our time.
The new coalition agreement presents some striking reforms in the field of international cooperat... more The new coalition agreement presents some striking reforms in the field of international cooperation. One ambition is to establish clearer links between policy addressing sustainability, poverty reduction and security. The creation of the new post of Minister for International Trade and Development Cooperation underlines that there is indeed a relationship between international trade and poverty. However, the ambitious programme is accompanied by a 25% reduction in the development cooperation budget. It seems that the government hopes to do much more with much less funding. In this discussion paper, experts from the worlds of research, politics and the civil society propose a far-reaching reform of international cooperation. Innovation, expansion (in terms of both effort and resources) and stronger coordination are cited as the three strands which will combine to create an effective, integrated approach to poverty reduction, sustainability and security. It must be remembered that in...
This article discusses whether Christian social thinking is obsolete in the age of globalisation ... more This article discusses whether Christian social thinking is obsolete in the age of globalisation or whether it continues to provide answers to the challenges of the modern world. Some people believe that the heydays of a Christian social alternative to capitalism or to state socialism are over following its successes in the middle of the twentieth century. Social protection and the emancipation of the working class have been achieved, and the distribution of wealth and income has reached a fair level throughout Europe. This article rejects this view and argues that Christian social thinking and its translation into political positions do not belong exclusively to a specific socio-economic phase of history or to a specific socio-economic system. The article also provides Christian social remedies for five aspects of globalisation: financialisation, the distribution of the fruits of globalisation, automation, control mechanisms and environmental protection.
The gains made by the European People's Party (EPP) in the 2009 European Parliament elections... more The gains made by the European People's Party (EPP) in the 2009 European Parliament elections have given the party a new opportunity to advance its message. In the face of the weaknesses of current social models made apparent by the recent economic crisis, globalisation and changes in European society, Christian democracy could provide an alternative that balances the demands of a globalising world order and the desire to preserve the European social model. Further policy research is needed; however, recent socio-economic challenges and the political success of the EPP have shown that Christian democracy has a bright future.
The Constantinos Karamanlis Institute for Democracy Series on European and International Affairs, 2009
This chapter analyses major societal changes that are currently taking place and their effects on... more This chapter analyses major societal changes that are currently taking place and their effects on the political agenda and the institutional framework of current society. By taking a thorough look at the three main new challenges—socio-cultural, socio-economic and security—it examines whether the changes now underway are the compatible with the values of society and its ideals for the future. The
On 18 October 2012, the European People's Party (EPP) Congress in Bucharest approved a new progra... more On 18 October 2012, the European People's Party (EPP) Congress in Bucharest approved a new programme of basic principles to replace the earlier Athens Programme. The new Bucharest Programme is based on the same principal choices and characteristics that have defined the EPP from its foundation; at the same time, it reflects the party's broadening to include a number of new member parties and adapt to the new challenges faced by European politics, economy and society. Yet the new Platform, the result of two and a half years' work by an ad hoc committee, should not be the end of our reflections and proposals. On the contrary, it should generate an intensive round of discussions, studies and publications on its four main elements: values, innovation, a strong Europe and vital communities. This article summarises the central elements of the new EPP Platform. Together, these elements can reposition the EPP as the political movement for the future, while at the same time presenting a vision and a solution to the challenges of our time.
Jos van Gennip argues that finding resources for post-conflict reconstruction and development obv... more Jos van Gennip argues that finding resources for post-conflict reconstruction and development obviously poses a critical challenge and the international community must play a part. However, rather than the development of the countries it is too often the strategic interests of large western donor countries that ultimately determine the level of aid. Successful security and development has to face these
In preparation for this special issue, the Editor asked a number of people of diverse generations... more In preparation for this special issue, the Editor asked a number of people of diverse generations, viewpoints and locations who have contributed in important ways to the Society for International Development and the journal Development over the years to respond to a series of questions: 1. How did they respond to the power of ideas as the 'line' for the journal issue, in particular, the constant message of Development about the importance of human-focused development and the need to explore alternatives to mainstream development? 2. Which ideas or policies did they see SID or Development as the quarterly journal of SID bring to the fore as cutting edge that led to real change.Which ideas need to be voiced that are not yet heard or acted upon? 3. What are some of the tensions in the development discourse, such as the tensions between North and South, between advocacy groups and policy groups, etc.? Who are the key actors in development today? What are the pressing issues in development today?
This paper argues that the Eu and its institutions are highly relevant to addressing the question... more This paper argues that the Eu and its institutions are highly relevant to addressing the questions of ethics and religion. although in general, policy matters should be dealt with at the lowest possible level, some matters concerning religion and ethics are best dealt with by a common approach at the Eu level of decision-making. applying a test of subsidiarity, the paper examines areas such as the economy, human rights, our multi-ethnic and multi-religious societies, and the relationship with the orthodox churches. The paper contends that the Eu member states and member parties of the Epp should lead the debate on ethics, values and religion. within the atmosphere of pluralism, dialogue and tolerance, the Epp should continuously cherish its Christian roots and values while responding to the economic, social and cultural realities of the day. The party should also leave enough room for those that belong to non-Christian religions and have other beliefs and convictions.
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