In the current economic crisis, and with 78 million people at risk of poverty in the EU, it is more important than ever that the EU in its Member States demonstrate a clear commitment that the social needs and rights of people are not subservient to needs of the economy.

Today is the 60th Anniversary of the United Nations' Universal Declaration of Fundamental Rights. Building the European Union as a social and political entity, I am glad that the EU also has a declaration of its core values. The EU Charter of Fundamental Rights has one chapter on 'Equality before the law' and another chapter on socia

Given that the militarisation of the European Union has been shown to be one of the major concerns of Irish citizens, it is extraordinary - and revealing, I think - that this category is not included among those up for discussion. I propose that this should be rectified.

Marriage remains the only civic institution linked to sex. - Alone a woman has the right to marry a man. - Alone a man has the right to marry a woman. And, sex is a biological, but no way juridical notion. This residue of discrimination must be eliminated: Let us define marriage as the union freely and reciprocally approved betwee

While the rate of development and economic power is not surprisingly disparate between Eastern and Western states of Europe, I would like to see a debate on how our constitution can normalize gender equality, access to education for all and employment rights across the EU. The basic rights of individuals is sanctified in the charter

The National Youth Council of Ireland wants the law changed so that 16 and 17-year-olds can vote in the Local and European Parliament elections. We believe that young people should have a greater say in decisions and actions that affect them and their community. For more information visit