The Ministry for Social Policy, in collaboration with MEUSAC, organised an information and consultation meeting regarding the European Year for Combating Poverty and Social Exclusion (2010).

The European Year for Combating Poverty and Social Exclusion (2010) as adopted on 22^nd October, 2008 by the European Parliament and the Council (Decision No 1098/2008/EC) is intended to reaffirm and strengthen the political commitment of the EU to make a decisive impact on the eradication of poverty.  In view of this, this European Year aims to promote activities (such as awareness-raising campaigns and studies, innovative schemes to promote social inclusion, conferences and competitions) which recognize that:

• all people have a right to live in dignity and take part in society
• the public and private sector share responsibility to combat poverty and social exclusion
• eradicating poverty for a more cohesive society benefits all
• commitment at all levels of society is needed to achieve this goal.

During this meeting, a presentation was delivered on the main aspects and themes of the European Year. For more background information on the European Year, reference can be made to the Strategic Framework Document for the European Year, which delineates the priorities and guidelines for the 2010 European Year activities.

The meeting was held on Wednesday, 27^th May, 2009 at Palazzo Castellania in Valletta.