On September 7th, Welcomeurope intervened in the European Parliament at the conference “Individuals in crisis – society in crisis”. Organized by the FEALIPS, under the patronage of Louis Michel, MEP and in connection with the World Day for the Prevention of Suicide IASP 2017, this day brought together 40 associations dedicated to get involved and carry their transdisciplinary work for the European Commission.
The conference gave an overview of the activities and questions encountered on the field with people in psychological distress and their family, professional and sometimes institutional surroundings.
Welcomeurope was in charge of analyzing the adequacy between European mental health policy, one of the pillars of the “Europe 2020*” strategy, and the consideration of the issue of isolation and suicide in EU programmes. According to the study, there is a discrepancy between the political framework described by words devoid of meaning such as “knowledge society”, “innovation potential”, or “impact assessment” and the reality of a society facing increasingly urgent, complex and violent situations. Although some initiatives to collect data have been supported by the 3rd Health Programme or by Horizon 2020, the subject of suicide is hardly leading to funded projects.
The debates highlighted the need to bring the political arrangements closer to the most effective prevention services and accompanying measures. Practices that work are often tailored to unique situations and operate locally but now have to be shared in collaborative projects on a European scale. The phenomenon of suicide must be approached by its psychological, cultural, sociological, economic and political components.
On the occasion of the World Day for the Prevention of Suicide, FEALIPS launched a working group to formalize recommendations.
The role of Welcomeurope
Welcomeurope will bring its expertise and strategic vision to the project in order to include it in the next European programming. In addition to its 18 years experience in setting up projects and applying for funds, the high-performing results of which are recognized by the entire community of European funds beneficiaries, Welcomeurope facilitates the management of transnational networks and organizes training courses.
*Europe 2020 towards smart, sustainable and inclusive growth and a reduction of social exclusion as a means of overcoming the structural weaknesses of the European economy
Photo © European Union
