1

Young European Socialists ECOSY News Troonstraat 98 1050 Brussels Belgium March-April 2006 www.ecosy.org [email protected] ´The Full Monthlyµ

1 & ECOSY Update ³ Full Monthly´ 23 26 February and March 2006 2, 3 Belarus 4 Though February is a shortest month in the year and March is a News from ELYA 4 middle one, that is suspended Galaxy Europe between winter and spring, caus- Sexual and reproductive 5 ing in most of people a feeling of rights and EU priority! exhaustion, for us in ECOSY those two months have been not Ukrainian Democracy 6 only energetic, but also very Needs EU help 7 fruitful. From a Constitutional 8 holiday to concrete steps 9 For the ³Full Monthly´, go to page 23 French society backs it 9 youth opposition...

Hungarian 10 Rhapsody 12 Similarities between 12 Bush and Islam 13

Young socialists look to 14 the future of Europe 15

Another Pride March banned, 16 another reason to rise up...

The hope for Peace 17 18 Winter University 18 Final Declaration 21 Invitation 22 Feminist Seminar

EU Summit announces new 27 goals on youth employment

ECOSY 27 Spring collection 28 BELARUS2 Meanwhile, just across the border of the EU« By Magnus Barsøe Bennetzen Lukashenko¶s recipe Danish Social Democratic Youth (DSU) Lukashenko¶s holds the country by the throat. Though definitely a cruel dictator and borderline insane, he still A member of the DSU (Danish Social knows his political A-B-C. He knows how to feed the Democratic Youth) Belarus-delegation population with just the right combination of terror and gives his low-down on the situation in relative economic security to stay in power. His recipe is the country, and on the future primarily based on three ingredients. Firstly, he keeps the population in the dark. It is nearly impossible for the possibilities for freedom and democracy citizens to receive any valid and impartial information about the Belarus society in general or the outside world. There exists no free media and only a few people have access to the internet. It is more or less impossible to get internet access in your home, since the authorities must approve all applicants. This way no internet access is given to the common Belarussian. Secondly, the citizens of Belarus are dreading the consequences of public protesting. Demonstrations are dissolved violently and students get thrown out of their schools and public employees get fired, if they are seen protesting or involved in NGO¶s. Because Belarus has a planned economy, everybody is in the end linked to the public sector, and thereby employed by the state. This enhances the risk of being sacked if you protest. The third and last ingredient in Lukashenko¶s governmental cocktail is his understanding of the average citizens need for security in everyday life. By obtaining foreign loans and massive indirect economic support from Russia, the president has created a raise in real income. Unemployment is virtually zero, so again, here lays no reason to protest. A consequence hereof, is that a lot of citizens feel better of economically, and thereby lack the will to overthrow the government. They still see president Lukashenko as a stabilizing factor in and ever changing globalized world. Why risk it all, when things are getting slowly better? This is by far the most important factor Democracy in Belarus..? behind Lukashenko¶s power. Unfortunately this is also very hard to remedy for bystanders in Europe. This said, The first encounter with Belarus gives the there still is a strong urge for democratic reforms. Even guest a clear impression of a country more living in a soviet time capsule. It is interesting is neither tormented by absolute poverty ³The 50.000 dollar the active nor starvation, yet its citizens question is therefore: political fundamentally lack the opportunities youth¶s will to that we westerners treasure so dearly. What can we actually do collaborate Belarus holds no freedom of speech, no to stimulate freedom and despite free media, no prosperous career political options, and no real market for goods or differences. services of any kind. There are democracy in Belarus?´ Though definitely a lot of similarities between disagreeing on the situation in Ukraine before the Orange policy issues there seems to be an understanding, that Revolution and Belarus, but one thing reforms only get implemented if the current president stands out: the majority of the Belarussians receives clear resistance from a collective opposition. are not eager to start a revolution and fight The 50.000 dollar question is therefore: What can we for democracy. But why is that? actually do to stimulate freedom and democracy in Belarus? 3 As history clearly shows, no country can be forced to adapt democracy from the outside. The international society cannot push a nation to overthrow a president, which a large part of the population considers as B legitimately elected or as µa necessary evil¶. Instead we should invite Belarussians to study abroad, so they can see with their own eyes, that there exists a democratic alternative. In this way no persuasion is needed, since E western democracies offer all the possibilities that the dictatorship of Lukashenka does not. I therefore suggest that students across Europe put pressure on the To do list universities and national parliament to admit students from Belarus. The first big issue to be dealt with is Russia¶s role. Unfortunately legislation in several By selling cheap gas to Belarus, which L countries limits this possibility since Lukashenka then sells on the world market to Belarus is not an EU member state. three or four times the price, Russia is keeping the Rules of admittance varies form country financially above the surface. EU and USA country to country, but it is important have to put pressure on Russia to end this. to argue, that teaching the students However, this seems to be an impossible task. from Belarus gives the opportunity to Worth mentioning is also the fact, that only the spread democratic seeds in the Russian OSCE observers found, that the recently country, when they return. In this way, A held election complied with universally recognized democracy hopefully will rise from democratic standards. So the will to continue the within. I do not ask universities across support for the Belarusian regime Europe to appears relatively strong. Before any ³It is hard to understand brush away real pressure can be put on Russia, qualified we as citizens in Europe must create that having a dictator applicants just an atmosphere of attention towards roaming about in the because Belarus. We must clearly make our backyard of Europe does students from R voice heard. Most of the politicians and not even seem to stir any Belarus apply. media do not show any interest in the I simply ask to country whatsoever. It is hard to attention.³ take into understand that having a dictator consideration roaming about in the backyard of Europe does not that accepting students from the even seem to stir any attention. But at the country may serve a bigger purpose. moment, this seems to be the picture. Therefore The students expressed their there lies a responsibly amongst us all to create a U unwillingness to accept an fuzz about the country, and the actual terms which undemocratic election, and were the Belarussians are living under. We must protest punished for it. In this way we support to signal clear solidarity with the democratic forces them in their struggle. Even if this in Belarus. Last Friday DSU did just that by suggestion does not amend in demonstrating in front of the Russian embassy in positive action at European Copenhagen. As the demonstrators in Minsk universities, it still causes attention to forced snow and temperatures well below zero the democratic problems in Belarus. degrees, we tried to show a commitment to the S As chairman of the Social Democratic cause and protested for liberty in Belarus. We do student organization at Roskilde (continued) not know if our voices were heard at the October University I will raise the issue to the square, but we got through to the Danish media. university board. Hopefully the An important notion about the prospects for respond will be positive. democracy remains to be discussed. The future 4 There will be neither revolution www.galaxy-europe.net nor real democracy in Belarus in the near future. The current It´s often said that the Euro- B situation simply holds no pean Parliament is a lot like indication that such a massive Big brother, and then people unrest is about to take place. would usually refer to the TV Changes in this forecast can show, not the book. JEF, the only happen if destabilizing Young European Federalists, E economic incidents occur. If have just launched a website prices on gas drop dramatically making the similarities be- the nation¶s economy will be tween the Parliament and the undermined and the possibility Big Brother show a little big- of revolution will rise. However, ger again: Weekly popularity L a fall in gas prices does not votes! seem plausible, with a steadily rising demand across the globe. Unlike the TV show you will not The hope for Belarus therefore be able to vote anyone out, but lies in the long hard road instead you can vote for your towards democracy. This will favourite MEP. Each week the A take years. Hopefully the next contest is between four or five election in 2010 will end MEPS below 35-years-old. The Lukashenka¶s rein, after all, fact that each time all candi- history shows that dictators dates are all of different politi- comes with an expiry date. I cal groups is, we are sure, do- R wish that I get to stay ing miracles for the visitor stats throughout the entire election of the website although this is probably not the best week in 2010, unlike this time, way to get people to actually read the profiles and an- when we thrown out halfway swers of the different candidates. through the election

U Anyway, ECOSY News is happy to point out any novel idea that can teach people more about the EU and the work of the Parliament and we actually enjoyed reading the profiles of this week¶s candidates. Do visit ³www.galaxy-europe.net´ to see how the candidates S are doing and to vote yourself! (continued) Last news from ELYA By Lilia Marinova, ELYA International Secretary

Looking back 2 weeks ago between the 11th and the 12th of March was the Congress of the party Bulgarian Social Democracy. Two members of the European Left Youth Alternative - ELYA¶s Executive Advice was proposed and elected for members of the BSD Executive Advice. The quota of ELYA for members of the Party¶s National Advice which until this moment was eight persons, increased with two members. Now ELYA has ten members in the BSD Party National Advice.

The fast global weather¶s changing also didn¶t bypass Bulgaria, one of the countries which has a big problems with floods. Whole areas of populated land was flooded, many families were flooded out.Thousands farms were destroyed and thousands of animals died because of these catastrophic events. The structures of ELYA in the all country helped in the flood control. It¶s very important to keep being human beings and to help each other at the best way we can do!

Also ELYA it¶s running few projects. One of them it¶s with the slogan ³Protect youth from HIV´ which contains lectures, a film-show and the distributing of leaflets and condoms. The program of the project connect the lectures to be organized and realized in three cities in Bulgaria; Sofia, Pernik and Pazardjik. Sexual and reproductive5 "planetary gaffes" rights an EU priority! By Janna BESAMUSCA ECOSY Feminist co-ordinator (Jonge Socialisten in de PvdA)

At the Bureau Meeting in Istanbul, we listened to the ambitious young women of Turkey telling us about progress and lack of it. Legally, especially in terms of human rights, the situation of The European Christen Democrats women has improved a lot and the participation of women on and Conservatives are this week in the labour market, though not equal to that of men, has in- Rome to support Berlusconi in his creased. However, women¶s issues are not on top of the campaign. Since our movement has agenda and the programmes offered by the EU all focus on the said some awful facts about him in economic dimension, whereas the Turkish women would prefer the past ECOSY News felt it would be human, sexual and reproductive rights to be the priority in their only fair to give the (soon ex-) leader struggle for gender equality. of the populist right a stage by Economically, Turkey is in a huge growth and moderni- quoting some of his most remarkable sation process, which it hopes to see reinforced by the pre- comments. accession programmes and later on by a full-fledged member- ship of the EU. The question at the moment is whether Turkey will be able to educate its people at the same speed in order to Last week, on china: match working force and the labour market (the same problem ´communist cadres didn¶t eat babies but we find in the EU, though to a lesser extent, and the Lisbon boiled them to fertilise the fields.´ Strategy). This is the challenge the EU sees and following its At the launch of the 2006 election formal commitment to the gender mainstreaming tool, it recog- campaign: nises the key role that women could play here. That these pro- "I am the Jesus Christ of politics. I am a grammes exist does not yet mean that the EU has gender patient victim, I put up with everyone, I equality as a real priority nor that Turkish feminists can take sacrifice myself for everyone." these efforts seriously. On Italian secretaries (comments Lacking even the competences to enforce sexual and made at the New York stock reproductive rights within its present borders, the Union is not exchange): particularly fond of promoting these elsewhere. Anti-trafficking "Italy is now a great country to invest programmes or those for the elimination of all gender based in... today we have fewer communists violence are always at risked of being cut in their budget or and those who are still there deny even merged to the background. As long as Member States having been one. Another reason to like Portugal, Malta, Poland, and even Luxembourg have not invest in Italy is that we have beautiful legalised abortion, demanding for instance the Turkish govern- secretaries... superb girls." ment to abolish the requirement of spousal consent for abortion On Mussolini: would be a rather risky step. In stead, the Commission "Mussolini never killed anyone. chooses to launch a few expensive and elitist seminars or pro- Mussolini used to send people on jects on topics like trafficking and gladly looks the other way. vacation in internal exile." On himself: The demands from our Turkish comrades to realise a real hu- "The best political leader in Europe and man rights agenda and promote sexual and reproductive rights in the world." both in the law and in practice is one that ECOSY should and can support. ECOSY has never wanted to wait passively until some leaders decide to create these rights inside the EU and beyond its borders. Human rights cannot stop at frontiers and need to be subject to global supervision and protection. The EU has the duty to support the Turkish women¶s movement gain their rights and should become much more active in all dimensions of the fight for gender equality. We would be wrong to praise the economic equal opportunities programmes as long as gender equality is still being pushed out or eaten by the hunger for short term economic growth. Ukrainian democracy6 needs EU help

Fifteen months ago the Ukrainians had a By Thijs Berman battle for democracy, last weekend they Member of the European Parliament had a democratic battle. This is a huge change; it is now up to the EU to help to dictator Lukashenko with his strengthen this development. ³victory´. Putin's election observers however did have strong criticism on the electoral process in Of course, not everything was perfect last Ukraine. This says a lot about the Sunday. There were long queues of voters cynical approach to democracy waiting for overcrowded polling stations. from the Kremlin. In Belarus the Some had to wait for several hours. And electorate had been intimidated, some little things have gone wrong with the the opposition had not been given counting of the votes. But what a difference a chance and it was impossible to with the presidential elections of fifteen verify the election result. Democratic protests where force- months ago! Then the Ukrainians came to fully crushed. The EU and the USA have, and rightfully so, the foreign election observers, thanking us announced sanctions against leading officials from Bela- and saying that we were their only protection rus. Their opportunity to travel is being restricted and for- against attempted fraud. Last Sunday, in eign assets are being frozen. The European leaders did polling station number 126 in the village of not in the mean time show their courage to condemn Luka- Bodorianka: I was given coffee, sandwiches sheko's godfather Putin. The only way to get away with and even a small glass of Ukrainian brandy. Lukashenko is The voters were raring to go to the table to make clear to ³The European leaders were people's identities where checked but Putin that he they were quiet and motivated. I felt super- must drop him. did not in the mean time fluous. This is the best thing that can happen For this is a to an election observer. show their courage to strong state- ment needed. It condemn Lukasheko's The results show that the lack of unity within does not work the liberal Orange camp has not gone un- when you re- godfather Putin.´ punished, although they maintain the major- ceive him with ity. Almost a third of the votes went to former all regards, like what happened last year in The Hague. Prime Minister Viktor Yanukovich. Every The contrast between Ukraine and Belarus is shocking. In young democracy is delicate and needs help Ukraine, we saw free media that was accessible to all po- but the Ukrainian democracy will not benefit litical parties. There was no intimidation on the electorate, from any help from Moscow. Russian presi- the civil services remained a neutral position and there dent Vladimir Putin was one week earlier where hardly any incidents. only too eager to congratulate the Belarusian

It is in the strategic best interest of the entire EU that Ukraine becomes a stable democracy. As a democracy Ukraine can have a positive influence and be an example to other former Soviet Republics. Being situated at the Eastern border of the EU can - and wants to - play an im- portant role in the struggle against human trafficking and other forms of cross-border crime. Cooperation with Ukraine on such specific policy areas of foreign policy and home affairs is good for human rights and our mutual se- curity.

When I ask my Ukrainian friends what Europe should do, they urge for concrete projects because such projects are more resistant against corruption. The EU knows this. In my hotel in Kyiv were three Dutch tax agents. They are here to help designing an efficient tax system, and this is 7 U k

most needed. In this country with a constant lack of state funding it is the poor that suffer most. In terms of healthcare, education, public services, r they have to do with what should have been written off decades ago. The new rich can buy everything without even bothering to look at the price tag. A good tax system could make a big change for the majority of the Ukrain- ian people.

More is possible. The procedures for getting an EU visa could be made easier, although the visa regime cannot be abolished because the Ukrain- ian borders are too fragile. The EU could give more advice on modernising a laws dating from Soviet times. Cul- tural exchanges could be more en- ³introducing thermostats couraged and still depend too much on whether the ambassador in Kiev would already make Ukraine happens to enjoy music. The EU far less dependent of Rus- could actively help against the (continued) waste of energy in Ukraine; intro- sian gas supplies.´ ducing thermostats would already i make Ukraine far less dependent of Russian gas supplies. Western Europe, especially The Netherlands, has a lot of know-how about how to save energy.

Ukrainian democracy needs EU help EU needs democracy Ukrainian European support of the change in Ukraine needs to accelerate. This does not even need to be expensive, often concrete advises are more valuable then money. The EU helps the Ukraine to become a member of the World Trade Organisation. The question whether Ukraine can ever become a n member of the EU, or even NATO, has at this point only value out of an academic exercise and is not what we should focus on. Ukrainians should first notice in their daily lives that the choice for democracy, the rule of law and closer ties with the EU leads to a clear improvement of their existence. e From a Constitutional holiday8 to concrete steps By Randel Länts, ECOSY Vice-President Live your life each day as you would climb a mountain. An occasional glance toward the summit keeps the goal in To give a personal approach, I mind, but many beautiful scenes are to be observed from do not think Ania, our Secre- each new vantage point. Climb slowly, steadily, enjoying tary General has an intention each passing moment; and the view from the summit will to clean and repair pipes serve as a fitting climax for the journey. somewhere in France and my- self, well, have you noticed a Harold V. Melchert price tag that I am wearing ad- vertising low labour costs? Well, I think we had rather good debates over the future of the EU during our Winter University in Brussels a month Need for further ratification ago. We gathered thoughts and listened to prominent speakers. I think it is a high time for ECOSY to renew its This morning when walking to work I was positions. Allow me to share some, rather personal, ideas thinking of this very article I am writing. Per- on the current situation and give, hopefully, some food for haps the French and the Dutch really should thought. have another go? I personally do not think there is a ground for a better compromise for the text. And I do not think, once again, this Constitutional holiday is m y p e r s o n a l o p i n i o n, that a It¶s been a long time since the Council called for the pause constitution must be a socialist one. It must of reflection. To me the pause has been extended to a be a constitution for all enabling the enlarg- holiday. Not much has happen since. The leaders of ing Union to function properly. Europe have wasted the UK Presidency and are doing the same with the Austrian one. I do, of course, understand I also welcome the further ratification by the that the Constitutional Treaty is a sensitive topic, but isn¶t it member states. To me this is the way to pro- why we have our leaders? Only little Belgium, the heart of ceed, to prove the doubters wrong by giving Europe as they advertise themselves, has been coura- the treaty another breathing so to say. geous enough to ratify the document becoming the 14th country to do so. The debate over the treaty has become more a philosophical one whether it is dead or not.

At the end of February President Valéry Giscard d¶Estaign argued that it was a mistake that the French vot- ers turned down the Constitutional Treaty and that it should be cor- rected. He suggests having another try after the presidential elections in 2007. To me it sounds quite reason- able.

In the upcoming congress (30-31 March) of the European People¶s Party, the debates over how to put the topic back on the table again are on the agenda. I am rather sad to see the inactivity among the centre- left across Europe on the very topic. The only Äachievements³ are the xenophobic or racist campaigns in France ± the Polish plumber case ± and in Sweden ± the so-called Vax- holm case. I strongly reject the9 core Europe idea put forward by the Belgian Prime From a Minister Guy Verhofstadt. This is rather a Polish plumber II, to use Holly- wood-style expressions, to keep the ones out who dare not to agree with Constitutional the founding fathers and/or mothers of the Union. holiday to We as young socialists and social democrats should, perhaps, read concrete once again the quotation given above and to learn to lose certain battles in order to win the war. By seeking and reaching compromises we will steps get much further than stubbornly rejecting like a donkey on a bridge not (continued) willing to go on. French society backs its youth opposition to labour market reform By Estelle Goger, ECOSY Bureau Member MJS France

On Tuesday March 28th, 3 million people took the streets in France against Prime Minister Dominic de Villepin¶s « Contrat Première Embauche ». It was the largest demonstration in 30 years. 69 out of the 80 universities are currently on strike with most of the university chairs showing solidarity and calling the government to withdraw the CPE. Public servants as well as employees from the private sector went on strike and joined the students and high-school pupils in their fight against the discrimination of young people and the flexibilisation of the labour market.

Despite the demonstrations and the polls showing the public opinion¶s disapproval of his reform, the Prime minister -backed by President Chirac- stays firms and refuses to withdraw the CPE. In inviting the trade unions and student unions separately, he tries to divide the social movement and to downgrade the role of the youth organisations in the social dialogue and the way out of the conflict.

After the urban riots of last autumn, this huge social mobilisation is again the sign that the French society doesn¶t offer its youth proper future perspectives and fails to integrate it. In the last 20 years, young people have paid the price of massive unemployment and deterioration of the working and living conditions. French politics have focussed on the 30 to 50 year olds in their attempts to fight unemployment and have thereby sacrificed the young generation that was maintained in university and in internships so as to push back the moment of entering the labour market. The ³génération précaire´ movement that was created in October 2005 to denounce the imprisonment of a whole generation in a cycle of intern- ships and low wage jobs was the first public manifestation of this situa- tion.

Even though the French youth seems to be the most mobilised and ac- tivist one, its situation only reflects the condition of young people all over Europe: unemployment, no career perspectives, exploitation in intern- ships and low wage jobs, dependence on the family for income and housing are only some of the problems they have to face.

MJS France takes an active role in the current movement and puts forward an alternative agenda: - Increase of the purchasing power via increase of the wages and redistribution policies - Firm control of working conditions and penalties for companies misusing pre- carious jobs - Creation of an autonomy grant enabling young people to develop their own life-projects 10 Hungarian Rhapsody -Some background and evaluations about the Hungarian elections, 2006 - By David Pusztai, After the shocking militant campaign of 2002, Medgyessy and his leftish coalition made welfare measures and became popular enough to win the local elections in the autumn of The four-year election term behind us 2002. After that, the impetus was no doubt an eventful one. In 2002, of the coalition was lost and Ä..becoming more after a long and bitter fight, the rightist from the middle of the year coalition led by Viktor Orbán and his 2003, Fidesz was always and more similar to party Fidesz failed and the new leading the polls ± many the Polish Kaczinsky government has been formed by a times with 15% or more. In small, 10 mandates majority by the the meantime, Hungary has brothers.´ Socialist party (MSZP) in coalition with signed the accession treaty the liberals (SZDSZ); the prime minister and from 2004 it became the member of the European became the Socialist Péter Medgyessy. Union. The EP elections were won by Fidesz: they had 12 Now, four years after, according to the MEPs while Socialists had 9, SZDSZ had 2 and the smaller rightists the time of revenge came. Or rightist party, MDF had 1. After this failure, the positions of not? Medgyessy ± being himself the worst orator in the Hungarian parliament since 1990 ± teetered, and in August 2004 he finally resigned. Several days after his former advisor and After his failure, Orbán and his people did minister of children, youth and sport, Ferenc Gyurcsány has not explain the events as a failure of their been elected to prime minister by the parliament. former militant and populist policy carrying on with the extreme right, but as a historical malheur, a once-happening Gyurcsány has reformed the Socialist party and its image mistake in the mobilization of their fundamentally. He re-defined the meaning of ¶left¶ and started followers. In the last four years Orbán was to popularize its values. The first greater challenge he had to trying to upgrade the mobilizing capacities meet was shortly after his inauguration as prime minister: in of Fidesz. They have established many December 2004, a referendum has been held in Hungary associations and civic movements being initiated by Fidesz on a real Ähot potato´± the citizenship of ostensibly independent from politics but in the 5 million Hungarians living outside of the borders. the reality these are working as satellite (Because of their strong national identity, these people living organizations of Fidesz. With the help of in minority in the neighbouring countries are considered as these, Orbán and the Fidesz were the supporters of the rightist side, so giving the right of vote continuously making politics on the street: to them would probably significantly strenghten the rightist they made demonstrations, petitions, parties.) Due to the dynamic campaign of Gyurcsány and the initiated referenda, while Orbán himself Socialist party, Fidesz failed the referendum, thely could not was boycotting the sessions of the realize the citizenship of ¶outside Hungarians¶. parliament and stated several times that From the beginning of 2005, Gyurcsány the real place of politics is not the in the and his government started the policy of parliament, but Äamong the people´. ¶100 steps¶ reforming the Hungarian Paralelly with this, Fidesz has changed its welfare system to be more fair and to communication and imported many leftish- support more the poorest and requiring like elements. The party became more more effort from the wealthier. Due to and more populist and its ideology less this dynamic policy, the difference and less clear. Besides the between Socialists and Fidesz in conservative rhetorics, Orbán the polls started to decrease, and carried on to make gestures to in the autumn of 2005, MSZP the extreme right, but started to has overtaken Fidesz. speak Äin favour of the people´± they criticized high gas prices, taxes, etc, becoming more and It can¶t be said exactly when the more similar to the Polish campaign for the elections of Kaczinsky brothers. 2006 has started ± some Péter Medgyessy analysts say that it has not finished11 in 2002 but it was permanently going on in the last four years. The first Årealµ campaign activity was made by MSZP in the autumn of 2005 when Gyurcsány has launched an identity campaign of Socialists called Åred ² the colour of the futureµ which intended to popularize fairness, courage and security as leftish values.

From the beginning of 2006, Fidesz has activized itself and its satellite organizations and started a very uninhibited campaign. In January, they made an ostensibly ·independent· newspaper called ·Hungarian Deerhound· blaming Gyurcsány and some members of his government. The trick was uncovered after a stupid affair (the fax ordering the distribution of these newspapers has been sent to the post from the Fidesz headquarters); at first Fidesz denied, but several days later they had to admit it. Several weeks later it was uncovered that the campaig server of MSZP has been hacked and nearly every datas ² creative materials, campaign itineraries, etc. ² have been stolen. The attack came from the Fidesz server, which was later admitted by Fidesz To learn more about the Hungarian too. Paralelly with this, elections, see

(continued) the party started a very strong negative campaign www.hungarianelections.blogspot.com ² which the main message was that Åwe live worse than four years agoµ and Orbán started to make promises which, according to experts, are not feasible ² such are the decrease of taxes by 10%, decreasing of gas and medicine prices, etc. Fidesz and Orbán also give some messages to the extremist rightist voters containing homophobia, xenophobia, clericanism and considering young singles not having a family yet as Åhoard of singlesµ. According to the words of István Mikola, Fidesz-candidate for vice-prime minister, they also want to give Hungarian citizenship to the Hungarians living in minority in the surrounding countries and stay in power for minimum 20 years with their votes. The main messages of the Socialists are fairness and development. Gyurcsány wants to reform the Hungarian public administration system, make infrastructural developments from EU-funds and to convert the whole Hungarian welfare system into a more fair one. Gyurcsány did not make non-feasible promises but tries to hold the image of the moderate and socially sensitive expert. According to the analysts, the outcome of the elections can·t be foreseen yet. The support of the two big parties is nearly equal ² according to the polls, MSZP has 46%, Fidesz has 43%, so the final result depends on at least three crucial circumstances. First, it is not irrelevant how many other parties will reach the 5% limit and get into the parliament. Actually only one more party, the liberal SZDSZ (the Socialist·s present coalition partner) has a good chance to get in ² they have 5-6% according to the polls ² , but if they fall out, hundred thousands of votes are going to be wasted, which, the experts agree, would lead to the failure of the present coalition. The smaller conservative party, the Democratic Forum (MDF) being now in the parliament is on 2-3% now, so probably they are going to fall out ² and weaken the right with the waste of around more than a hundred thousand of votes. The extremist rightist MIÉP (Hungarian Life and Justice Party) has 1-2%, so probably this party won·t play an important role. However, the voters of MDF and MIÉP can vote to the Fidesz candidate in the second round of the elections, so their importance can·t be understated. Second, the participation rate is very important. Rightist voters are traditionally much more active than those of the left, so a low participation rate would be more favourable to the right. Therefore some analysts say that this rude campaign done by Fidesz intends to Some background and evaluations about the Hungarian elections, 2006 elections, about the Hungarian evaluations and Some background - frighten away the voters from the ballot boxes to secure the majority of the rightists. However, extra high participation has also some dangers: SZDSZ can fall out because of the limited number of its supporters and this can be enough to the failure of the leftish coalition. According to some estimations of the experts, the most favourable participation rate for MSZP could be around 65-70% Third, besides the national and territorial list results, the efficacy of the parties in the 176 single constituencies (·districts·) is also very important. The traditional basis of the left is in Budapest and the greater cities, and also in some traditionally industrial territories of the country, while rightists have a greater support in the countryside. At least 100-110 of the 176 constituencies have a stable party preference, but some 60 of them seem to be uncertain and a big fight is going on for these. Hungarian Rhapsody Hungarian (It gives some advantage to Fidesz that12 ± after Disclaimer the hacking of the Socialist campaign server ± This newsletter contains facts, views, opinions, ² they acquired the itinerary plans and statements, and recommendations of programme plans of the Socialists. It seems individuals, Member Organizations and now that they have organized a ¶whistling occasionally third party organizations. These brigade¶ following Gyurcsány and other do not necessary reflect the opinion of ECOSY Socialist leaders to bewilder their campaign ± Young European Socialists as an events ± however, it can also strike back to organization or her Member Organizations them.) unless this is clearly stated. The copyright of articles remain with their The stake of the elections is not small. If the authors and other content providers but can be rightists take freely redistributed as long as the power, Ä...after the hacking of the there are no alterations to the they are going text and as long as the name of to doSocialist campaign server ± the author and the original something they acquired the itinerary source of the article are clearly very similar to mentioned. For legal reasons plans and programme plans we do very much urge you to the Polish contact us whenever you want Kaczinsky of the Socialists.´ to use an article from our (continued) twins ± some newsletters. kind of autoritarian setback with leftish-like populism Sent to the ECOSY Secretariat: and a negative change in the foreign relations I'm from Belarus. Help us to deside and the government¶s attitude towards the EU. our problem thith Lukashenco!!!! We On the other hand, with a second mandate of are very tired!!! Our people is afraid! the present leftish government of Ferenc More then 1000 people in the prison! Gyurcsány, which fortunately has good chances now, Hungary can go on its way Our soicial-demacratic candidat in towards becoming a modern and social president Kazulin in the prison! One European country. man was killed by police during manifistation!!! Very more MY Friend was beat by police and seat now in Hungarian Rhapsody Anyhow, on the 9th of April, we¶ll see it.

Some background and evaluations about the Hungarian elections, 2006 elections, about the Hungarian evaluations and Some background the prison and we don't have - (Second round on the 23rd.) information abote they!!! Sociati is afrade! Similarities between Bush and Islam? Laila Naraghi, ECOSY vice president

The conflict between the Occident and the Orient has been hardened since the 11:th of September 2001. For an alien paying a quick visit to our planet might the whole conflict easily appear as a war between a coun- try, the US, and a religion, Islam.

The Occident has, under the leadership of the US, every now and then claimed that Islam is lacking respect for women. The veil, harem and burka are only some of the words used by war maniacs such as President Bush, in or- der to demonstrate the anti-democratic character of Islam. The inequalities between men and women in Muslim coun- tries are considered as a major lack of democracy in the Muslim parts of the world. Naturally is that a correct obser- vation, but the question is if Bush & Co. are the right per- sons to make such a judgement. (continued) Bush¶s13 own policies are direct hostile to women. As a true abortion opponent has he been cutting down the American support to the UN Population Fund, UNFPA, because of his resistance to women¶s right to abortion. Additionally is Bush doing spectacularly little in order to fight trafficking with women and children or to stop the humiliation of women that is following the extreme commercialism spreading around the world.

The Moroccan feminist writer Fatima Mernissi is comparing the view on women in the Orient and in the Occident in her book ³Scheherazade Goes West´. Bush has a lot to learn from her. Mernissi was brought up in a harem and in the book is she comparing her own experiences and the Orient culture with the western man¶s sexual fantasy image of a harem. In his imaginary world is the harem a place with passive women and an eternal peace for active men. Mernissi is of the opposite opinion. She claims that the harem is a way for Muslim men to take power over women

Mernissi means that the two diverse traditions to look upon a harem reveal two totally diverse traditions to look upon women. While Muslim men throughout history have seen women as tempting, whose strength and intelligence have scared and thrilled them, has the western man preferred passive ³A women that has the women. Kant, one of the most well known and trendset- ting philosophers for modern western culture, claimed that head full of Greek« women shouldn¶t develop their intelligence but instead de- could just as much vote their time only to take care of their appearance. Kant meant that women that hold a big knowledge will become carry a beard.´ ugly and therefore disrespect the female mission to con- tribute with beauty to this world. In ³Observations on the Feeling of the Beautiful and Sublime´ Kant wrote: ³A women that has the head full of Greek« could just as much carry a beard.´

In the Occident has a women been appreciated as a beautiful object while in the Orient has a women been considered as a scaring subject. Both perspectives have contributed to the op- pression of women.

The patriarchate prevails, in the Occident and in the Ori- ent. Bush & Co. might use the female oppression in Muslim countries to legitimize the imperi- ³but the question is alistic policies of the what Bush¶s alterna- US, but the question is what Bush¶s alter- tive is. It¶s barely native is. It¶s barely gender equality.´ gender equality.

An alien visiting our Earth wouldn¶t probably be most surprised over the conflict that could be perceived as a war between a country and a religion. Most likely would the alien be stunned over the fact that women aren¶t starting a war against the bizarre world order still op- Similarities between Bush and Islam? Similarities between Bush pressing them. Young Socialists14 Look to the Future of Europe

March 6th± 9th saw the gathering of over 50 young activists from socialist and social democratic parties across Europe for the inaugural ECOSY Winter University. At this critical juncture for the European project, it is the aim of the Party of European Socialists and its youth wing to maximize the opportunity to promote our common vision of a social Europe ± to transcend the Washington consensus; to move µtowards a new consensus on Europe¶. In light of both the constitutional quagmire and, perhaps more saliently, the very real socio-economic problems facing the people of Europe, ECOSY is determined to ensure By Victor Duggan, Youth Officer, Dublin West Labour. Thus, with significant logistical and financial support from the Socialist Group in the European Parliament, and with the active help by our comrades from MJS Belgium, ECOSY set about the development of a coherent declaration on the steps believed to be needed to deliver a Social Europe. In view of the EU Commission¶s µPlan D¶ (Democracy, Dialogue and Debate) the Winter University was designed around three core themes which would serve to frame the context of the debate: 1) Europe¶s socio-economic development, 2) the institutional framework and 3) the EU¶s role in the wider world. Within this broad framework were a series of plenary sessions, lead by challenging speakers from PES, NGOs and trade unions. To compliment these, a series of workshops were arranged so as to allow deeper analysis of particular issues with a view to establishing concrete policy proposals.

Central to the discussion was the need to create an active, inclusive Europe ± a social Europe for everyone, not only for the privileged. Discrimination based on age, gender, sexual orientation, whether explicit or in more covert forms must be fought at every turn. Indeed, there was broad agreement that pro-active policies are needed to ensure that European society is inclusive, and that the European Union does have a concrete role to play in this regard. (continued)

15

Young Socialists Look to the Future of Europe

March 8th, designated as International Women¶s Day by socialists since 1910, was chosen to formally launch the PES campaign, closely supported by ECOSY, to combat sexual slavery and the trafficking of women in the run up to the World Cup in Germany. People-trafficking, for instance, is one area where a positive role for European level action is not only possible, but essential. This phenomenon knows no borders! On this important day, it was the conclusion of the feminist network that feminism is not only alive and well, but will continue to be a progressive force in European society until real equality is a reality.

Debate was open and constructive with the emphasis being placed on maximum participation by all in attendance. The workshops, in particular, allowed for different viewpoints to be aired ± and at least some progress to be made towards consensus. As this was my first ECOSY event, I found the atmosphere to be very different to the often confrontational context of domestic politics. This, I believe, was conducive to consensus based political discourse and this must be seen as one of the strengths of ECOSY as an organization. The Winter University culminated with an emotive closing ceremony and the presentation of a draft declaration to reflect the substance of the debates which had taken place over the previous days. Though the difficulty in reaching consensus, even (or maybe especially!) within our movement, is apparent, I believe it to be imperative that we mobilize on the basis of those issues on which we can all agree ± those issues which are at the core of ECOSY¶s campaign for a Social Europe for Everyone.

While attempting to define our vision of a social Europe can undoubtedly be a fruitful academic exercise, we must remember that it is our actions by which will be judged. My experience at the ECOSY Winter University has reinvigorated my belief in the necessity of creating a truly social Europe, and in the power of our generation to shape it. Having outlined our vision of a social Europe, it is incumbent on us as activists for progressive social change, to agitate to make this a reality. Another Pride march banned,16 another reason to rise up and fight homophobia By Hannah Blythyn Moscow Mayor Yuri Luzhkov barred Moscow¶s Gay ECOSY Vice President Pride celebrations, scheduled for May, last month. This action was taken after receiving threats of disruption and violence from religious leaders in the city, who said they found the idea of a Pride Anti Homophobia EU Resolution celebration in Moscow offensive. The European Parliament adopted a joint Since making the ban, Luzhkov has rightly faced criticism resolution in January against homophobia. from gay campaigners and civil rights groups across the The resolution, titled Homophobia in Europe, world, as well as from members of the European was tabled by five political parties and parliament. Additionally, in February his mayoral passed by a 469-149 vote with 41 counterparts in London, Berlin and Paris called on him to abstentions. lift the ban. London's mayor Ken Livingstone said he would The long measure defines "homophobia" as "urge" the Mayor to lift the ban and ensure human rights "an irrational fear and aversion of were respected in Russia. homosexuality and of lesbian, gay, bisexual Activists from across Europe demonstrated against the and transgender people based on prejudice, ban and protestors took to the streets in London, Paris, similar to racism, xenophobia, anti-Semitism, Warsaw, Stockholm and Vienna to call for action but so far sexism." It calls on member states to take there has been no movement. action "in the fight against homophobia, A lot done, a lot still to do sexual orientation discrimination and to promote and implement the principle of Europe may now have a record number of equality in their society and legal countries that recognize gay marriages in order." law but gay pride marches are still The officers of the Intergroup being banned, political and religious on Lesbian and Gay Rights leaders are using the language of praised the resolution, and hate and menace and police are called on EU Justice Affairs Commissioner Franco Frattini failing to protect peaceful to act on it. This resolution is demonstrations and break up violent a welcome step as whilst, gay unrest by homophobic groups. The rights are improving in some countries it is patently obvious Latvian and Lithuanian governments that increasing liberty is not a are currently passing amendments to reality throughout the EU. their national constitutions Now action must follow the words of the resolution. prohibiting same sex unions. For ECOSY ± Young European Socialists being a socialist has always meant being a feminist, which we emphasized in resolutions, also during the last ECOSY Congress and in actions. This year¶s seminar is though happening in a very special moment ± eleven years after Bejing Conference, six years after the Millennium Development Goals pledge was put forward by world¶s leaders and just a month after the new Roadmap to Gender Equality that was published by European Commission. This, together with a special focus on idea of inclusive, gender sensitive labor market, that ECOSY promotes within this mandates ³Social Europe for everyone´ campaign is to compose the thematic core of the event. Additionally, the seminar includes a debate of anti-sexual exploitation policies in Europe that have been under fire in many EU Member States as well as in the European Parliament. The interactive program, combining panel discussions, workshops, and a study visit with speakers from many different backgrounds, will be a framework in which we will elaborate ECOSY Feminist Network future agenda, we will create new strategies, prepare the ECOSY Feminist Network¶s contribution to the IUSY Festival, and write policy proposals for a lasting and inclusive gender equality. (see the full invitation elsewhere in this newsletter) 17 The hope of peace

By Ekain RICO Secretary General of JSE in the Bask Country (Translation by Laura Robles Castro)

On the 22nd of March the media that historically have brought us pain and sorrow announced to the World that, finally, ETA declared a permanent cease fire. Right after this, half of the population of the Bask Country took the phone doping to be the first one to announce such a good new to his or relatives or friends. The truth is that when good news arrive we all want to be the first transmitting them, and in the Bask Country it was about time to start having good news.

It is true that starting by ourselves, we all claim for prudence, but allow us to make one thing clear: both in Spain and in the Bask Country today hope is the major feeling.

And it is hope because we are facing the first democratic mandate without mortal victims; it is hope because president Zapatero, instead of looking for electoral profitability has been able to demonstrate his political vision as a state-man as an alternative to previous ones which were mere ³government-man´ approaches.

Zapatero has been able to bring back the need to re-establish the unity of democratic forces and most of all, he has been able to build a bridge to those who, only a few days before the announcement of the cease fire, were blaming and accusing the Socialist Party of any problem.

We talk about hope because it is us, those who historically have defended the democratic values in the Bask Country, who are today, more than ever, united on a socialist movement which has a deep commitment with peace.

This will of peace is such a need, is so obvious in this land that even the first voices which raised showing distrust have started going down and falling in front of this enormous will of peace which is invading us. It is obvious that the logic drives to a great hope. (continued) It was about time to finish in Europe18 with the last corner where terrorism was playing a definitive role. Europe and the European Youth have shown a long time ago our commitment and engagement with peace and liberty, and this is a scenario where coactions, or the armed struggle for any kind of ideal has no room.

Dialogue is the only acceptable tool in a democracy and it recovers more strength ³It was about time to finish in and vitality after the announcement of the Europe with the last corner cease fire on the 22nd of March, and as we can read in the Spanish Parliament where terrorism was playing Resolution we claim that: ³« convinced as a definitive role.´ we are that politics can and must contribute to the end of violence, we re-affirm that, if the conditions are adequate to reach an end to violence through dialogue, on the basis of a clear will to end it and on the basis of clear attitudes which can drive us to this conclusion, we will support dialogue processes between the competent bodies of the State and those who decide to give up violence. We commit ourselves to respect in every moment the basic democratic principle that political issues must be solved only through the legitimate representatives of people¶s. Violence has no political price and the Spanish Democracy will never accept blackmail.´ The hope of peace of The hope

Text adopted by ECOSY Winter University participants dur- ing the closing ceremony on 9th March 2006 2006 Since the rejection of the constitutional treaty in the Netherlands and France, the problems of ³Towards a new consensus on Europe´ Europe have become obvious. Not only are around 20% of the people in the European Un- FINAL DECLARATION ion unemployed, in the recent decade the gap between rich and poor has increased. Europe in its current institutional framework has been unable to overcome this socio-economic prob- lem. The clear lack of leadership and consen- sus in the EU has reinforced the negative trend. In combination with the already existing fears of people for their livelihood by moderni- sation processes like globalisation, the peo- ple¶s desire for change in Europe becomes vi- tal. ECOSY - Young European Socialists demand the people¶s social right to live in social economic secure sur- roundings and have access the opportunities for future socio-economic development. (continued)

For that reason ECOSY welcomes the19 five point plan presented by Schulz, calling for a structured reflection pause, the adoption of services and working time directives, improved law- making procedures, a European minister for foreign affairs, and the involvement of national parlia- ment and the current debates in the PES on the social Europe tackling demographic challenges, a new growth and investment strategy and the people¶s dialogue. . By organising the first winter university, young socialists from all over Europe gathered to debate a new consensus on Europe. From our perspective, Europe needs social development within an improved institutional framework. ´

Finances and Social Europe

With the Lisbon strategy, the EU 25 has stipulated that Europe has to become the most a organized with was

competitive knowledge-based economy in the world and by that realise ten million extra jobs. Un- ´ fortunately, at its mid-term review, the strategy for Europe is not on track because of several rea- sons but particularly because of a lack of finances. This lack of finances is a lack of investing in education, social security systems, entrepreneurship and increased adaptability. In the perspec- tive of ECOSY a new growth and investment strategy, taking into account the social dimension, must be realised. This strategy should provide the flexibility for anti-cyclical investment policies and investment in growth markets. A synergy between universities, governmental institutions, and private enterprises must be the spil of the new pact. Each euro invested by the governments on research and innovation, should be translated into two euros investment by private enterprises, as said in the current Lisbon Agenda. The investment strategy that ECOSY proposes is more than only spending money, it is bringing people, expertise, and capital together. In a world that is get- ting increasingly globalised, this is the only path forward. Next to that, the EU should thoroughly reform its stability and growth pact. It should allow for the necessary investment by the member states and the rigid system of limitations needs to become more flexible. It should be considered to exclude investment in education, knowledge development, and research and innovation from the pact.

Considering the Lisbon Strategy and the development of the national investment plans, we have to conclude that the Lisbon objectives are still far from being achieved. The Open Method of Coordination that seems to be a new policy development mechanism for Europe, in fact only entails a moral commitment of the EU Member States. To increase the impact of the strategy, leaders of Europe need finally to show political leadership by making true policy choices. The so- cial policy agenda can¶ t be forgotten and the Lisbon Strategy as a whole cannot not end up as a device for further liberalisation. ECOSY affirms the need for a free and fair market in Europe, which can only be realised in ³a social Europe for everyone´. Towards a new consensus on Europe on new consensus a Towards ³

Different perspectives on the institutions

Designing new policy alone will not do the trick. The debate around the constitutional treaty has shown that the bureaucratic masterdome is ineffective in bringing citizens closer to Europe. The European Parliament should become a true parliament with the right to initiative, to dismiss individual commissioners, and with real accountability of individual MEPs. The mutual respect and the party unity, which is visualised in the discipline by voting and advocating for com- mon agenda needs to be strengthened. This we emphasise especially in light of new european parties report, aiming at creation of the European political party system, for which real existence we call. What also can not be forgotten in this particular debate is ensuring equal participation of men and women in parties by introducing gender mainstreaming proposal in the report and also the existance and the role that European political youth organizations.

In the context of a hesitant Commission and a reluctant Council, the Parliament cannot wait until it is given more competences but must act now and gain more influence by exploring the

Towards a new consensus on Europe consensus a new Towards borders of its powers. As the lower house, the EP needs to be more powerful than the Council. ³ The ECOSY Winter University 2006 2006 University Winter ECOSY The kind support of the Socialist Group in the EP and active help of comrades from MJS Belgium MJS from comrades help of active and EP the in Group Socialist the of kind support (continued) To bring the citizens closer to Europe,20 we need to incorporate in the curricula all through Europe, elements of Europe that will increase the understanding of the need for the EU and of its functioning. Next to that, it is in the perspective of ECOSY

unacceptable that the Leonardo Comenius programmes are in the current proposal . of financial perspectives cut. To bring people closer to Europe the EU has to invest in possibilities for exchange from an earlier age on. In the times when the EU is heavily debated, the EU needs to reach out to its citizens. For that, Plan D is a very good tool that needs to be continued in ECOSY by organising different seminars to

´ give our contribution.

All equal all different

In the EU, women and especially young women are still underrepresented, a organized with was underpaid, and undervalued. The gender pay gap of 15% is unacceptable, as are the ´ disproportional number of women in part time jobs, and the meagre conditions of the childcare systems in Europe. The EU urgently needs to invest in equal access to op- portunities, equal opportunities, and equality of outcome. ECOSY appreciates the efforts at gender mainstreaming that are being taken, but stresses that this is not enough as the actual implementation of gender policy needs to be done by the Mem- ber States. We need legally binding minimum standards at a high level of social se- curity. The patriarchal system needs to be changed into a more gender neutral and realistic system that takes account of tasks that are performed outside of the labour market, like raising children or running the household. ECOSY very much supports the Spanish equality law the Norwegian law obliging private enterprises to have at least 40% of both sexes in executive boards and calls on other Governments, institu- tions, and organisations to introduce the same measures. Additionally, we need con- crete policies against discrimination of women, domestic violence, and trafficking of women. Furthermore, discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation has to be over- come. ECOSY demands a stronger emphasis on LGBT issues in Community poli- cies, and especially in their equal opportunity pillars, and calls the PES to tackle the issues more actively by establishing its own PES Queer Network. Towards a new consensus on Europe on new consensus a Towards ³ Towards a new consensus on Europe consensus a new Towards ³ The ECOSY Winter University 2006 2006 University Winter ECOSY The kind support of the Socialist Group in the EP and active help of comrades from MJS Belgium MJS from comrades help of active and EP the in Group Socialist the of kind support (continued) 21 The EU in the world . In the year 2000, the United Nations adopted 8 Millenium Development Goals (MDGs) that would have to serve as the aims and guidelines for the international community in the struggle against the negative side-effects of globalisation, such as poverty and unsustainable patterns of consumption They point out sad aspects of our reality, in which rate of mortality by birth, the number of HIV and AIDS affected are not diminishing. For ECOSY, the MDGs are the absolute ´ priority in foreign policy and it is essential that much more money and effort is invested in the realisation of the MDGs. This is a pledge, that world leaders have announced themselves commited to and this is the high time to deliver the actions and results.

The EU¶s trade and foreign policies have to be fair to the rest of the world. It is

unacceptable that Africa, Asia, and Latin America become the victims of Europe¶s unsustainable a organized with was

actions or positions. Therefore, the EU needs to integrate the principle of fair trade in all its ´ policies and has to enlarge the budget for development and humanitarian aid. The demand is strong and the expectations can not be deceived, especially after the success of mobilisation of GCAP ± Global Call Against Poverty. ECOSY does and commits itself by following up already started together with IUSY campaign ÄFair Trade now!´.

Another important policy area for the EU must be the neighbourhood policies. We do believe that the attention in this area has to be to both southern and eastern dimenssion.

We do believe that the struggle for peace and human rights, that the issue of alliance of civilization is the one that EU has to tackle with a special attention, revitlising the Barcelona Process in its all three dimenssions. There has to be more efforts to give a real content to the Association Agreements and all those ambitious projects we do believe should be not on the level of rhetorics, but above all in concrete framework, like to appropriate financial one ensuring the pledges to have means to be fulfilled.

The process of enlargement and integration, leading to peace, democracy, prosperity all over Europe has to be advancing, aiming helping applicant and candidates states to fulfill Copenhagen criterias. In this aspect we, young European Socialists and Social Democrats, are also emphasising issue of integration of the social policies and labour market to abandon any multi-speed Europe.

As neighbourhood policy is not only the question of on going enlargement, but a question of ensuring stability and democracy in Europe, we call for an action on Belarus, remaining the last European dictatorship, being also a neighbourhood country of the EU. Europe on new consensus a Towards ³

The European Union, despite all its economic power, has failed to deliver a encompassing and cohesive foreign policy. Decision-making procedures need to be reformed, unanimity in the Council and the veto need to be abolished, and the European Parliament needs to be involved as an equal partner.Only strong, united voice can make dreams of Europeans be fulfilled on the world wide level. Towards a new consensus on Europe consensus a new Towards ³ The ECOSY Winter University 2006 2006 University Winter ECOSY The kind support of the Socialist Group in the EP and active help of comrades from MJS Belgium MJS from comrades help of active and EP the in Group Socialist the of kind support 22

ECOSY ² Young European Socialists

To: ECOSY Member Organizations

Subject: Invitation to ECOSY Feminist Seminar 20th± 23rd April, The Hague

Brussels, 3rd April 2006 Dear Comrades,

With this letter we would like to invite you to the ECOSY Feminist Network Seminar ³European Feminism in Present Tense´ that will take place from the 20th until the 23rd of April 2006 in Hague, in the Netherlands.

For ECOSY ± Young European Socialists being a socialist has always meant being a feminist, which we emphasized in resolutions, also during the last ECOSY Congress and in actions. This year¶s seminar is though happening in a very special moment ± eleven years after Bejing Conference, six years after the Millennium Development Goals pledge was put forward by world¶s leaders and just a month after the new Roadmap to Gender Equality that was published by European Commission. This, together with a special focus on idea of inclusive, gender sensitive labor market, that ECOSY promotes within this mandates ³Social Europe for everyone´ campaign is to compose the thematic core of the event. Additionally, the seminar includes a debate of anti-sexual exploitation policies in Europe that have been under fire in many EU Member States as well as in the European Parliament. The interactive program, combining panel discussions, workshops, and a study visit with speakers from many different backgrounds, will be a framework in which we will elaborate ECOSY Feminist Network future agenda, we will create new strategies, prepare the ECOSY Feminist Network¶s contribution to the IUSY Festival, and write policy proposals for a lasting and inclusive gender equality.

The seminar is foreseen for 40 participants. The list will be filled up accordingly to time of applying. Organizations are encouraged to delegate two representatives, composing a gender balanced delegation.

Last but not least, we would like to ask you to register online via the ECOSY website (www.ecosy.org) till 13th April 2006.

Looking forward to seeing you in the Netherlands,

Giacomo Filibeck Ania Skrzypek ECOSY President ECOSY Secretary General

Janna Besamusca Zita Schellekens ECOSY Feminist Network Coordinator JS in PvdA International Secretary In the mentioned time we held the23 Presidium and Bureau Meetings. The Presidium Meeting ³Towards a new Consensus on Europe´ was gathered in Brussels from 10th 12th February 2006 and was a very successful one. The Presidium adopted several resolutions (on Turkey, Middle East, Roadmap to gender equality, EU Financial Per- spective, Austrian EU Presidency, Demographical challenges), focused on the reform of ECOSY (within framework of the three Bureau Commission), adopted the financial re- port and budget for 2006 and last but not least, focused on preparing the upcoming ac- ´ tivities (ECOSY Winter University, ECOSY Euro-Med Seminar, ECOSY Bureau). 5 weeks later, the ECOSY Bureau took place in Istanbul, in Turkey from 17th till 19th March under the topic ³A Social Europe ± in the EU and beyond its borders´. That was a significant moment, since for the first time ECOSY Bureau met outside of the EU or an accessing country, and for the first time it was combined with an intensive study visit for all the Bureau Members on the question of Turkey today and the further enlargement processes. There were 9 speakers from politician parties, youth organizations, NGOs and foundations addressing the Bureau. Focusing on Turkey, Bureau nevertheless car- ried on also with Bureau regular work ± it adopted resolutions (the ones mentioned above and additionally ± one on Belarus against the Lukashenka regime, on the envi- ronmental friendly and energy safe Europe, on integration, on the Service¶s Directive, on the youth pact, on Social Europe initiative ± fighting unemployment and reducing working time. Furthermore the Bureau adopted the reports, including financial one for 2005 and agreed on the budget for year 2006. What was also advanced was a debate on the reform of ECOSY ± among the Policy Development, Statutory Reform and Enlargement Commissions.

In February and March ECOSY also held two seminars. One, taking place in Brussels from 6th till 9th March 2006 was the First ECOSY Winter University ³Towards a new con- sensus for Europe´. It was organized with a support of the Socialist Group in the Euro- pean Parliament and active help of the MJS Belgium. The programme of activity was composed of three pillars being the core of the European Commission, specifically Commissioner Margot Wallström Plan D, which were: Social and economical develop- ment of Europe; Feeling towards EU and its institutions and EU in the world. What was added to three above was the question of equality, which we debated at the plenary on ³All different, all equal´ celebrating the 8th March ± International Women¶s Day. This day ECOSY inaugurated joining PES Women in media event ± the signing of a petition against women trafficking in the EP. Inauguration of the activity took place on 6th in the PES Headquarters with presence of PES Secretary General Philip Cordery, Socialist Group in the EP Secretary General David Harley and representatives of MJS Belgium and ANIMO ± Brian Booth and Bram Boriau. After the opening ceremony participants took part in workshops, which had form of general introduction of the themes of follow- ing three days and finding out about expectations on the project. All the topics were tackled at plenaries and workshops, that took place from 7th till 9th in the EP with pres- ence of more than 20 MEPs ± specialist of mentioned fields, representatives of PES and PES Women, trade unions (ETUC) and civil society organizations (SOLIDAR, Euro- pean Women¶s Lobby, OBESSU).

Additionally, all evening meals were also accompanied by additional events: meeting of ECOSY Veterans (where apart Pau Solanila all ECOSY Secretary Generals gathered), Political Youth Organization Fringe (with participation of IFM-

The Full MonthlyFull The SEI, EYF, JEF, Lymec and FYEG) meeting and diner with MEPs. The activity gathered 50 activitsts of ECOSY and was a success. It brought a lot of

³ new ideas, mobilised new activists and was revitilising and challenging in terms of ECOSY political debate. It was finalised with a Final Declaration (see elsewhere in this newsletter), which will be also followed by publi- cation of speeches from activity and articles by participants. 24 In February and March the ECOSY cam- paign ³Social Europe for everyone´ was also further promoted. We would like to invite you herewith to the new campaign web site: www.Socialeurope4everyone.org , not only to visit, but also to contribute ± any remarks welcome!

February and March witnessed also few activities, congresses and changes of the

´ Member Organizations. Starting from Con- gresses, in the last days ± 28th and 29th of January (so almost February) FMS Poland The second, ECOSY Euro-Med seminar, enti- held its Congress in Warsaw. Delegates tled ³Alliance for Peace. A new Europe from adopted new programme and action plan, Mediterranean Perspective´ was held thanks to with emphasise on issues of democracy, hospitality of comrades from Sinistra Giovanile civic rights and fight against the right. Also in Italy, in Palermo from 24th till 26th March the new Presidium was elected ± Grze- 2006. It gathered participants from ECOSY and gorz Pietruczuk remained as FMS Presi- IUSY Member and partner Organizations from: dent and as Secretary General delegates Spain, Greece, Cyprus, FYROM, France, Swe- supported Konrad Golota. Patrycja Jaku- den, Denmark, the Netherlands, Poland, Roma- bowska remained FMS international sec- th nia, Lebanon, Israel, Palestine and Turkey. The retary. On 4 February JSL Luxembourg programme was composed of the plenary dis- held its Congress, during which several cussions, which topics were inspired naturally resolutions were adopted and also new by Barcelona Charter (on : Immigration: the board was elected ± Jean Poul Espen re- challenge of coherence, Women and peace mained as JSL President, while Chritophe building, Young politicians of the Euromed, cul- Schilz became a new international secre- tural understanding ± the necessity for dia- tary and same time ECOSY Bureau Mem- logue, Economical cooperation and sustainable ber. A week later, LSDYU Lithuania cele- development for stability). Next to plenaries, brated its congress, which was devoted to also the ECOSY network meetings were held. the programme discussion and did not in- What is very important is that the seminar was corporate any elections. Last but not least, in the landscape of the campaign before the also SJD-Die Falken leadership has upcoming Italian elections, supporting our com- changed. As a new Chairperson Die Fal- rades, who tirelessly are struggling against Ber- ken elected Sven Frye, who also used to lusconi and whom we wish a lot of strength in be ECOSY Bureau Member. His portfolio this fight! We hope to see centre-left winning in as International Secretary was same time April in Italy taken by Tim Schrock. Also MSD Slo- and we vakia changed the representatives ± hope that a new Bureau Member is Katka our com- Nevedalova. All elected comrades rades, run- and all comrades who have finalised ning in the their contributions in the youth move- elections will ment we would like to congratulate, The Full The Full Monthly reach great wishing you all and all the organiza- results! tions strength in further actions! ³ In terms of activities that Member Organizations25 Within the European Youth Forum, notified to ECOSY and where ECOSY was in- ECOSY has been following and contrib- volved ± MJS Belgium, ANIMO, MJS France, JSL uting to the network of the political youth and JUSOS took part in demonstrations held in organizations. During one of the meet- Strasbourg on 12th and 14th February against the ings, hosted by ECOSY in our office, we Services Directive. On 10th March ECOSY Secre- have all taken part in the consultation tary General participated in the debate ³Social round concerning the EP report on the Europe´, which held in the Willy Brandt House political parties. For this we were joined and organized by JUSOS linked up with ECOSY by Jo Leinen, Reporter and Chair of the Campaign ³Social Europe 4 everyone´. In men- Institutional Affairs Commission in the tioned time framework, ECOSY has also received EP. After further debates, finally we are visits of delegations of the member organizations happy to announce that the amendment ´ (SSU, FGS, SJO and SSF) in the Brussels Office. to report, put firstly forward by Pasqualina Napoletano, MEP in a form of question about role of the youth or- ECOSY has had also a pleasure to develop and ganizations, and then supported by strengthen the positive relations with IUSY. IUSY Greens Group, who tabled amendment supported ECOSY preparations towards the men- establishing working group of EP, par- tioned above Euro-Med seminar significantly. Fur- ties and youth organizations is voted in. thermore ECOSY President participated in the This is an important moment, especially th th IUSY Presidium held in Allicante on 24 till 26 that for the first time European Political April. And last but not least, ECOSY was invited Youth Organizations are mentioned in to join and joined (President and Secretary gen- official EU Document, which bridges us eral) IUSY for the study visit in Serbia and Monte- with the future, being still under con- th th negro that took place from 28 till 30 March. struction real political party system on the European level. ECOSY has worked also within the PES, taking part in the statutory meetings (2 coordinating What is more, in terms of relations with team meeting , 2 presidency meetings, PES external partners, ECOSY has joined, Women meeting, PES Leaders Meeting), contrib- together with IUSY, the ³Decent work, uting to Initiatives (People¶s Dialogue) and taking decent life´ campaign, that co-shared by active part in debate on Social Europe (within the GPF (Global Progressive Forum), three working groups: Active Society, Inclusive ICFTU and SOLIDAR since World So- Society and EU Dimension). What is more cial Forum last year is getting new ECOSY supported the PES Women Initiative shapes and energetic kick-off towards a th against Women Trafficking (launched on 8 busy agenda. March) and also was present at the ³Training for trainers´ organized in Budapest by PES Women and CEE Network. Finally, ECOSY has undergone changes within the Se- cretariat. Secretariat grew ± in terms of both number of people and space. Next to Tom Rot- tinghuis, by 1st of April Robert Avonds, new The Full The Full Monthly ECOSY Political Officer started working within

³ our Secretariat Team. We welcome warmly Robert, who has been selected out of more than 120 applications ECOSY received as a response to vacancy call, wishing him the best with his new job! We are happy also to welcome IFM-SEI,26 who just last week moved in to the Headquarters at Rue du Trone, joining the PES and ECOSY.

The moment we are finishing this update, ECOSY Control Commis- sion is meeting in the office, we are heading towards IUSY-IFM SEI- ECOSY Queer Easter, ECOSY Feminist Network Seminar (see invi- tation elsewhere in this newsletter), ECOSY Presidium at the ESF, ECOSY Bureau in Vienna, ECOSY Leaders Conference and ECOSY Queer Network Seminar. The agenda is busy ± and we hope to meet you at those activities! Please use www.ecosy.org ! ´

But that all is possible only thanks to hard work of many, many com- rades. This is why we would like to thank again all the Presidium, Bureau and Control Commission members, ECOSY Network Coor- dinators who have contributed to all the political development and fulfilment of the activity plan so successfully. Our special regards go to the Member organizations who participated in the events, while our special thanks to those member organisations that have hosted them: MJS Belgium, JUSOS, Sinistra Giovanile.

Truly last, but not least we would like to congratulate comrades from JS in PvdA, Young Labour Israel and Meretz-Yahad in Israel the electoral results. We wish you all the best in the new political circum- stances and a lot of strength to win more and more new struggles! To our comrades from Sinistra Giovanile, FGS, Fiatal Baloldal, MSD Czech Republic, MSD Slovakia, Young Labour and Labour Students from the UK, SSU and SSF we also send herewith the wishes of good luck ± we keep our fingers crossed for your victory! Ania Skrzypek General Secretary ECOSY The Full The Full Monthly ³ EU Summit 27 announces new goals on youth employment

By Hannah Blythyn ECOSY Vice President

The EU Summit on 23rd-24th March was the first review of the Lisbon Process since the EU decided to re-focus the Lisbon agenda in 2005.

Key outcomes on youth employment included the following: That efforts should be intensified to reduce early school leaving to 10% and to ensure that at least 85% of 22 year olds ECOSY Spring collection less then a revolution away should have completed upper secondary education. In his 1988 song "Waiting for the Great Leap Forwards," British troubadour By the end of 2007 every young Billy Bragg promised, "The Revolution is just a T-shirt away.´ It¶s been a while since, and maybe it takes more then a shirt or two. Which is why person who has left school ECOSY is proud to present you 8 new T-shirts! So, for all those and is unemployed should be revolutionaries among you, and also for all the ehm.. ³evolutionaries´ among offered a job, apprenticeship, you, the ECOSY Spring collection will soon be available via the website. T- additional training or other shirts that even have content if nobody is wearing them, a social(ist) shirt for employability measure within a very democratic price. six months, and within no more than 4 months by 2010. (Preview, final designs may be little different)

This is an outcome to be welcomed but it is crucial to remember that we still need to fully implement the Youth Pact. The Youth Pact is a key instru- ment in developing a coherent and strong Youth Policy, one that is able to cross over and position itself in all the policy issues of the EU. It is the responsibility of Heads of Govern- ment and States, as well as the President of the Commission, to fol- low the spirit of the Youth Pact and make youth issues a real priority. 28

Soon on www.socialeurope4everyone.org

Upcoming:

100 Years JSE! (Bilbao, Spain)

Queer Easter (Werftpfuhl, Germany) Feminist

Seminar, (The Hague, The Young European Socialists Troonstraat 98 Netherlands) 1050 Brussels Belgium European Social Forum, (Athens, Greece) www.ecosy.org [email protected] Bureau Meeting

www.socialeurope4everyone.org (Viena, Austria)