Brussels, 16/06/2005 (Agence Europe) - Following the adoption on 25 May by the Commission of the International Movement ATD Fourth World's Guiding Principles for Sustainable Development”, ATD points out that poverty persists in the EU and that there is an increase in inequality and precariousness. ATD Fourth World affirms that in order for society to develop in a sustainable way, it needs to create the conditions for genuine opportunities for all. To this end ATD Fourth World Affairs in its declaration that “it must be recognised that many people do not have access to fundamental rights. We must be ready to offer more means, support, and time to those who, because of extreme poverty, have received less”. ATD asks what future for young people who have often seen their parents unemployed during their childhood, what can they hope for? ATD points out that “All they are currently offered is a string of placements and training courses that lead to nowhere, with the alternative being a life of inactivity and feeling useless. ATD Fourth World thinks therefore that, “investment is needed in programmes offering long-term guidance and support that are accessible to those experiencing many difficulties”.
According to ATD Fourth World, the response to poverty and exclusion has to consist in unequivocally affirming the objective of the eradication of poverty and social exclusion in Europe and the world.