For Europe Day 2006, thousands of young people across Europe accepted the invitation to go to the cafés d'Europe. Yesterday, in 27 European capital cities, events focussing on dialogue with young people took place under the patronage of the Austrian EU Council Presidency, organised by the Institute of the Regions of Europe, and supported by various sponsors (Generali Versicherung AG, Österreichische Lotterien, Casinos Austria AG, Magna International Europe AG, mobilkom austria AG, Österreichische Volksbanken AG, Österreichische Nationalbank). 27 Cafés d'Europe were chosen as meeting places for lively discussions, literary exchanges and culinary “seduction”.
Young people see their futures closely linked to that of Europe. They see opportunities and mobility, but do not hold back from airing their doubts and criticisms. Mobility, jobs, the environment and the rate of expansion are the topics which interest Europe’s youth the most.
"Young people speak openly and bluntly about what is worrying them and what they object to. Young people want to make up their own minds about Europe and are seeking their own Europe. Here, positive mobility in terms of jobs and employment is a good way of opening horizons to an image of Europe which focuses on youth", was how Secretary of State Hans Winkler summed up this large-scale European youth dialogue.
Readings and writings were also held yesterday in the 27 Cafés d'Europe. International PEN had invited 27 authors to put their thoughts on paper and present essays on the topic of “Temptress Europe”. The Austrian author, Josef Winkler, made an impassioned appeal to young people not to forget the value and quality of language and the written word. There must also be room for a good quality of language in the new communication media.
Visitors to the cafés d'Europe across Europe were also invited to write and send in their own highly personal stories about Europe (info@cafeeurope.at). These contributions will be compiled and presented prior to the European Council on 15/16 June.
A European daily newspaper entitled “The Europe Journal” was also printed for the first time on Europe Day 2006. Arranged by the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, a team of European correspondents reported from 27 countries. “The Europe Journal” was read with great interest in all countries.
The lure of “Sweet Europe” clearly found its way to people’s stomachs. Enjoying Europe’s culinary diversity and delicacies met with great approval. A collection of recipes for 27 European cakes and sweets were given to visitors to take with them as a reminder of Europe Day 2006. The European recipe leaflet “Sweet Europe” can be requested free of charge on 0800 22 11 11.
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