The support by the European Parliament is the final step before the launch of the European Year next January. The Council of Ministers endorsed the Year at their Employment and Social Affairs meeting in June.

The European Year for Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations will raise awareness about meeting the challenges of ageing as well as sharing best practices.

Active ageing can give older people the opportunity to stay in work and share their experience, to continue to play an active role in society and live as healthy, independent and fulfilling lives as possible.

It calls for action in many different areas — employment, social protection, education and training, health and social services, housing and public infrastructure.

The European Year will go beyond awareness-raising and rally public and political support to encourage all policymakers and stakeholders to set themselves goals and take concrete action. To ensure follow-up, all commitments made will be published on the website of the European Year.