BEGIN:VCALENDAR
VERSION:2.0
PRODID:-//ELFAC - ECPv6.15.3//NONSGML v1.0//EN
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
METHOD:PUBLISH
X-WR-CALNAME:ELFAC
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.elfac.org
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for ELFAC
REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H
X-Robots-Tag:noindex
X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H
BEGIN:VTIMEZONE
TZID:Europe/Paris
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:+0100
TZOFFSETTO:+0200
TZNAME:CEST
DTSTART:20250330T010000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:+0200
TZOFFSETTO:+0100
TZNAME:CET
DTSTART:20251026T010000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:+0100
TZOFFSETTO:+0200
TZNAME:CEST
DTSTART:20260329T010000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:+0200
TZOFFSETTO:+0100
TZNAME:CET
DTSTART:20261025T010000
END:STANDARD
END:VTIMEZONE
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Paris:20250408T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Paris:20250408T163000
DTSTAMP:20261108T152359
CREATED:20250303T102642Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250602T084917Z
UID:11685-1744124400-1744129800@www.elfac.org
SUMMARY:UN Side Event cpd58: The central role of families in promoting public health and wellbeing
DESCRIPTION:UN COMMISSION FOR POPULATION AND DEVELOPMENT – 58 SESSION\nEnsuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages \nhttps://www.un.org/development/desa/pd/events/CPD58 \n  \nPROGRAM\nSide event ONLINE – YouTube live \nDay: Tuesday 8 April. 2025 \nTime: 09:00 – 10:30 am  EST  / 03:00 – 4:30 pm CET / 09.00 – 10:30 pm CST \nDuration: 90 minutes \n09:00 EST / 15:00 CET Welcome and introduction. Raul Sanchez\, secretary general of ELFAC  \n09:05 EST / 15:05 CET: The family network as a support system: prof. Francesco Belletti\, director of the “Centro internazionale studi famiglia – CISF” (Milano\, Italy). \n09:20 EST / 15:20 Testimonial : Irina Granzulea\, president of the Romanian Large Families Association ASFANU\, and the Mimler Family\, European Large Family of the Year 2024. \n09:30 EST / 15:30 Advocacy of families in international organizations: Judit Regős\, Parent’s House NGO (Hungary) and Madeleine Wallin\, Haro NGO (Sweden) \n09:45 EST / 15:45 The Family Lens in Health and Demographic Policy: Gudrun Kugler\, vice president of OSCE PA (Parliamentary Assembly of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe)\, Special Representative on Demographic Change and Security. \n10:00 EST / 16:00 Best practices in local policies: Regina Maroncelli\, coordinator for the European Network of Family-Friendly Municipalities (familycities.eu). \n10:15 EST / 16:15 The central role of families in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development: Renata Kaczmarska\, Focal Point on Family\, Division for Inclusive Social Development (DISD)\, United Nations. \n10:25 EST / 16:25 Closing \n  \nBACKGROUND NOTE\nCurrent health programs and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)\, largely focus on individuals\, overlooking the broader context in which individuals live – the family system. According to Bowen Family Systems Theory\, family members are interconnected and interdependent\, and “family should be viewed as a system”. (1) By addressing factors such as mental health\, malnutrition\, and economic hardship at a family-level\, we can better address root causes of diseases and implement preventive strategies. \nHealth promotion and prevention must begin at the family level too. Families are where good health habits are cultivated and passed on\, ensuring the wellbeing of all generations. A healthy\, functional family system is essential to preventing illness\, fostering emotional support\, and improving overall quality of life. \nThe quality of family relationships plays a significant role in mental and physical health. Studies consistently show that strong family bonds contribute to better health outcomes. According to recent studies\, maternity and paternity lead to a better personal health and improve the sense of meaning and life in general; also the sense of future is enhanced\, and it increases in old age. (2) \nParents\, grandparents\, and siblings may serve as informal caregivers\, essential yet invisible and undervalued (their work does not appear in the national GDP). Still\, family caregivers “are recognised as the backbone of the health care system”\, (3) providing unpaid\, often unrecognized\, care to children\, elderly and chronically ill relatives. \nStates should adopt a “family impact lens” (4) in their public health and demographic policies to better address the challenges posed by global population changes. Supporting families and empowering them to fulfil their roles will lead to better health outcomes and will contribute significantly to achieving the SDGs.  \nPollution\, malnutrition\, stress\, poor working conditions\, inadequate healthcare\, lack of social security\, and insufficient access to clean water and sanitation are all factors taken into consideration in the 2030 Agenda\, but\, without a “family impact lens”\, very little attention is given to the impact they have on families. Incorporating and involving the families into health promotion strategies is essential to creating a sustainable future. \nThis should be done ensuring that family dynamics\, diversity\, and caregiving burdens are considered in all population health discussions and policy initiatives. Article 16.3 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights must be fully realized\, ensuring that families are granted their rightful place in society \nFamilies must be recognized as central to achieving health equity and population goals. By investing in families\, supporting their functions\, and recognizing their importance\, states will foster a healthier\, more sustainable future for people\, communities\, and the planet. \n(1. Haijing Zan\, Zhixing Meng\, Jing Li\, Xinjian Zhang & Tao Liu \, 2024 Factors associated with quality of life among elderly patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: the role of family caregivers\, https://bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12889-024-17917-z  / 2. Institute for family and society studies\, Poland\, 2024. / 3. Exploring experiences of family caregivers for older adults with chronic illness: A scoping review\, Barbara Member Jika BSc\, MSc\, Hafiz T.A. Khan PhD\, FRSPH\, CSTAT\, Muili Lawal Phd\, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0197457221003293  / 4.Elisabetta Carra\, 2020 https://publires.unicatt.it/it/publications/il-family-impact-lens-frameworkteorico-e-modello-operativo.)
URL:https://www.elfac.org/event/un-side-event-cpd58-the-central-role-of-families-in-promoting-public-health-and-wellbeing/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.elfac.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/UN-cpd58.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Paris:20250501T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Paris:20250501T150000
DTSTAMP:20261108T152359
CREATED:20250328T113724Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250407T144400Z
UID:11809-1746097200-1746111600@www.elfac.org
SUMMARY:1st May: Large Family Day in Riga (Latvia)
DESCRIPTION:Dear Wonderful Large Families of Europe\, \n\n\nOn May 1st\, we invite you to a special celebration at Riga Zoo – the Day of Large Families! Together with hundreds of Latvian families\, let’s fill the air with laughter\, love\, and the magic of shared moments. This is a day to honor the strength\, warmth\, and unity of your beautiful families\, surrounded by the wonders of nature and wildlife. \nSpecial price tickets for large families (13 EUR per family with Šeimos kortele card) will be available for purchase online starting from April 7th: https://rigazoo.lv/en/buy-e-ticket/\nSince there will be public holidays in Latvia from May 1 to May 5\, we will soon collect information from all Riga entertainment places that would offer special prices for large families during these days.\n\nLet me know if there are large family organisation which want to visit the event and if they some help to be arranged!\n\nWe can’t wait to see you there!\n\n\n\nElīna Treija \nThe Head of the Board\nThe Union of Latvian Large Families\n+371 29481771\nwww.kustiba3plus.lv\n\n   
URL:https://www.elfac.org/event/large-family-day-in-riga-latvia/
LOCATION:Riga zoo\, Meža prospekts 1\, Ziemeļu rajon\, Riga\, LV-1014\, Latvia
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.elfac.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Large-Family-Day_Latvia_May1_2025.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250516
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250519
DTSTAMP:20261108T152359
CREATED:20250527T112300Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250527T112447Z
UID:12033-1747353600-1747612799@www.elfac.org
SUMMARY:Better future festival in Gdynia (Poland): Greener cities\, greener EU
DESCRIPTION:The Festival for a Better Future is a project led by ELFAC\, within its European Network of Family Friendly Municipalities\, and funded by the European Commission’s CERV (Citizens\, Equality\, Rights and Values) program. The aim is to highlight the role of the family in tackling Europe’s main challenges. \nThemes such as “The Europe we want”\, “Welcoming cities for a caring EU”\, “Greener cities\, greener EU” and “Inclusive growth” are the central themes of each of the four events\, one for each partner municipality of the project: Alghero (Italy)\, Bacau (Romania)\, Creixell (Spain) and Gdynia (Poland). \nEach event consists in a conference with experts in the topic\, a workshop of good practices of municipalities\, and a discussion of young people with a final manifesto. Also includes a “feast” event\, like a concert\, activitities for families and children\, workshops in museums or cultural centers\, excursions\, etc… \nFully linked to our EVENT 3\, the project is supporting the EU Green Deal by engaging citizens and municipalities in a greater reflection and action for the constructions of green cities. Through workshops and discussions\, we provide a platform for participants to reflect on and act toward the development of sustainable urban areas with accessible green spaces. By facilitating dialogue\, sharing best practices\, and exchanging ideas\, we empower municipalities and citizens to prioritize the integration of green infrastructure\, ensuring improved health\, well-being\, and environmental quality in their communities. \n  \nPROGRAM\nBETTER FUTURE FESTIVAL – GREENER CITIES\, GREENER EU\n16-18.05.2025\, Gdynia – Poland\n  \nDay 1. 16.05. Friday \n11:00 – Alghero group – Climate Fresk – workshop leads by Marta Jarosińska from Department of Environment of the city of Gdynia in CN Experyment  \n14:00 – Physics of new technologies – workshop leads by CN Experyment \nhttps://experyment.gdynia.pl/en/ \n20:00 – Dinner at  Vinegre (vinegre.pl) \nhttps://maps.app.goo.gl/snwRJDaaPvvfdh8V7 \nDay 2. 17.05. Saturday \n9:00 – Participant registration and welcome coffee at Konsulat Kultury  \n10:00  – Conference opening \n\nKatarzyna Korzeniewska – Director\, Gdynia Culture Centre\nMaciej Zielonka – Vice-President City of Gdynia\nMaria Regina Florio – Coordinator of the Network of Family-Friendly Municipalities\nRaul Sanchez – Secretary General\, ELFAC\n\n10:30 – Exchange of Good Municipal Practices: \n\nBacau: Lucian-Ionut Andrei\, city council of Bacau\nCreixell: Montserrat Muñoz\, mayor of Creixell\nAlghero: Mauro Ledda\, ofiice for family policies of the municipality of Alghero\nGdynia: Marta Jasińska from Department of Environment of the city of Gdynia and Anna Sowa from CN Experyment\n\n11:30 – Conclusions \n11:30 – Youth debate/workshop – Greener today for the better future – manifest \n12:30 – Lunch provided by Konsulat Kultury \n14:00 – Guided tour of the city (in english) led by Agnieszka Drączkowska-Gradzik \n16:00 – Free time \n18:00 – Museums night & Better Future Festival in Konsulat Kultury \n\nConcert:\n\n\nDJ set Coastline Northern Cuts (Tomek Hoax & Marcin Szulc)\nDawki\nDaltonists\n\n\nLARP game from Sirius Game Studio: “Ghosts of the Past”\n\nThe history of the Cultural Consulate – the former Swedish Seaman’s House – is rich in stories of unique people and events. In our game\, three ghosts\, from different historical periods\, are unable to leave the building without completing their earthly affairs. Listen to their stories\, help them in their dilemmas and free the Ghosts of the Past. For every help you give\, you will receive one layer of the image of Gdynia on a postcard. What does it hide? You’ll find out only when you collect them all. No age restrictions. \n\n“Visibility. Proximity. Presence”\n\nVideo art and anime – presentation of four artists: Iwona Zając\, Agnieszka Babinska\, Dajana Desi Borowiec and Jacob Baal \nThree projects – three different visual languages. Poetic performance\, intimate dream registration and expressive animation come together to talk about the hidden\, the transient\, the deeply personal. \nParallel events: \n12:30 – Nature walk for families led by Salcia Hałas: “Urban green guerrillas – or plants ready for anything” \nDay 3. 18.05. Sunday \n10:15 – CN Experyment – a guided tour of the “CLEVERFOOD for everyone exhibition”\, starting at 10:15am. The guided tour will take no more than 30-45 minutes. After that\, we can offer a guided tour of the permanent exhibition\, either partial or complete (1-2 h). \nParallel event: \n9:00 – Nature walk for families led by Katarzyna Rosińska: “Bird Sunday – an attentive ornithological walk”. \n \n  \n 
URL:https://www.elfac.org/event/better-future-festival-in-gdynia-poland-greener-cities-greener-eu/
LOCATION:Konsulat Kultury Gdynia\, ul. Jana z Kolna 25\, Gdynia\, 81-354\, Poland
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.elfac.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/poster-gdynia.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Paris:20250518T080000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Paris:20250518T170000
DTSTAMP:20261108T152359
CREATED:20250430T091525Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T111227Z
UID:11944-1747555200-1747587600@www.elfac.org
SUMMARY:Estonia: Family Day 2025 at Tallinn Zoo
DESCRIPTION:The Estonian Association of Large Families is welcoming families with large children to the Tallinn Zoo on May 18th for the spring Big Family Day. On this year’s Family Day\, we invite families to get active in cooperation with the Estonian Olympic Committee and LIDL Estonia! \nCome and spend a memorable day with the whole family at the zoo\, where you can expect: \nAnnouncing the Big Family of the Year 2025!Exciting surprise guests: a chance to meet famous Estonian athletesFamily orienteering game at the zooDelicious treatsActivities for childrenPrizes\, games and lots of joy from being together \nEvent schedule: \n10:00-13:00 The zoo gates are open for Family Day guests. Entrance from the West Gate \n12.00 Opening of the day in the zoo auditorium\, at the Western Gate and announcement of the “Family of the Year 2025” \n13.00-15.00 Lunch at BISON Square \nQuiz and meeting with athletes \n13.00-17.00 Orienteering game at the zoo. \nTo redeem the prize\, you must reach the finish line at the West Gate no later than 17.00. \nThe zoo closes at 19:00 \nImagine: elephants\, polar bears and… your family! Come celebrate the power of extended family at the zoo! \nPlease allow enough time for ticket inspection and\, if necessary\, finding a parking space when you come to the zoo. Parking in the zoo’s west gate parking lot costs 2.10 EUR/day. Parking can be paid at the cash desk. \nTicket sales will continue until seats are filled. \nThe event is supported by Bigbank Estonia\, Lidl Estonia\, Saku Brewery\, the Estonian Olympic Committee and Perekaart. \nThe event is captured through the lens of a camera. \nTickets available at Fienta: https://fienta.com/et/perepaev-tallinna-loomaaias-130577 \nSee you soon! \nEstonian Association of Large Families 
URL:https://www.elfac.org/event/estonia-family-day-2025-at-tallinn-zoo/
LOCATION:zoo tallinn\, Tallinna Loomaaed\, Tallinn\, 13522\, Estonia
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.elfac.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Suurperepaev_plakat-2048x1152-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250530
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250602
DTSTAMP:20261108T152359
CREATED:20250529T174250Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250529T174926Z
UID:12075-1748563200-1748822399@www.elfac.org
SUMMARY:Better future festival in Bacau (Romania): Inclusive Growth and families
DESCRIPTION:The Festival for a Better Future is a project led by ELFAC\, within its European Network of Family Friendly Municipalities\, and funded by the European Commission’s CERV (Citizens\, Equality\, Rights and Values) program. The aim is to highlight the role of the family in tackling Europe’s main challenges. Themes such as “The Europe we want”\, “Welcoming cities for a caring EU”\, “Greener cities\, greener EU” and “Inclusive growth” are the central themes of each of the four events\, one for each partner municipality of the project: Alghero (Italy)\, Bacau (Romania)\, Creixell (Spain) and Gdynia (Poland). \nEach event consists in a conference with experts in the topic\, a workshop of good practices of municipalities\, and a discussion of young people with a final manifesto. Also includes a “feast” event\, like a concert\, activitities for families and children\, workshops in museums or cultural centers\, excursions\, etc… \nOur 4th event in Bacau wants to discuss on “Inclusive growth” by engaging citizens and municipalities in a greater reflection and action for the constructions of inclusive cities. By facilitating dialogue\, sharing best practices\, and exchanging ideas and good practices\, we empower municipalities\, families and citizens to prioritize the inclusion of all ages and situations\, for the well-being in all of our communities. \n \nGeneral Logistics – Better Future Festival Bacau \nTransfer of Delegations: The Bacău City Hall can provide car transfers for delegations arriving at or departing from Bucharest and Iași airports. \nAccommodation: Hotel Dumbrava \n  \nPROGRAM\nBETTER FUTURE FESTIVAL – INCLUSIVE GROWTH\n30 May – 1 June\, 2025\, Bacau – Romania\nFriday\, May 30 \nArrival of Participants \nSaturday\, May 31 \nConference & Cultural Program \nConference (ends no later than 6:00 PM) \n\nModeration: Representative of the Bacău City Hall\nRO – ENG translation provided\nInvited participants:\n\nFamily-friendly companies from Bacău:\n\nMoncler – clothing production\, has an in-house kindergarten https://www.moncler.com/en-ro/\nDedeman – DIY & home improvement retailer\, founded by  2 brothers form a large family with 9 children https://www.dedeman.ro\nAgricola – chicken products producer\, has its own kindergarten https://www.agricola.ro\n\n\nInvited NGOs:\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFoundation for Community Support – Bacău https://fsc.ro/\nBetania Association https://www.asociatiabetania.ro/\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOther guests suggested by ASFANU: Municipalities potentially interested in joining the european family network\n\n\n\nAfter the Conference: \n\n6:00 PM – 8:00 PM: City walk and visit of family-focused activities; open-air disco\n8:30 PM: Traditional dinner offered by the City Hall with artistic program (at the hotel where guests are accommodated)\n\nSunday\, June 1 \nFamily Day \n\n10:00 AM – 2:00 PM: ASFANU Stand (TBC)\n4:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Flashmob – synchronized dance world record attempt\nEvening: Concert\n\nACTIVITIES FOR FAMILIES FROM 30 MAY TO 1ST JUNE \n\nOn the International Children’s Day\, Bacău becomes the capital of joy! Between May 30 – June 1\, 2025\, we invite you to the Children and Family Festival – Better Future Festival\, a spectacular event dedicated to the little ones and families!\n\n\nWhat’s next:\n\n\n* Creative workshops\, performances and live concerts for children\n* Interactive games\, mascots\, parades.\n* Specially designed areas for educational and recreational activities\n\n\n  All activities are free and thought to bring smiles\, color and positive energy to the hearts of children!\n\n\nWe are waiting for you in large numbers\, with a good mood and a mood to play! Let’s celebrate childhood together\, in a great style\, in Bacău! \n\n\n\nFriday\, May 30\, 2025 – in the Passage of the Revolution\n“Talented Child\, Child at the Palace 2025” light music\, modern dance\, theater\, English culture and civilization\, popular music. Karting and bicycle circuit\, street in front of the Administrative Palace\n\n\nFriday\, May 30\, 2025 – in the Tricolorului Square on the stage at the Culture House\n\n\n14:00 – 21:00 Performance on stage\, kids from local clubs\, dance academies.\n\n\nDJ Adrian Șaguna\n\n\n Saturday\, May 31\, between 10:00 – 13:00 Cross Olympic. Athletics competition for age groups\n\n\n 13:00 – 19:00 learning routes for cyclists on Nicolae Bălcescu street – Mară esti\n\n\n Workshops and street demonstrations – in the Tricolorului Square and on the way to Mară ereesti;\n► Workshops of: face-painting\, molded balloons\, colored balloons\, painting\, drawing\, etc.\n► Street theater\, characters on feet\, characters in costumes\, children’s animators\, etc.\n► SPORTS ZONE\n► 5 Inflatable castles for kids\, free access 10-19;\n DRUMMERS BARBAROSA SAMBA GROUP – super street concert dedicated to children\n\n\nSaturday\, May 31\, 2025 – on the stage at the Culture House\n10am – 6pm Performance on stage\, kids from local clubs\, dance academies\, etc.\nPercussion ensemble Spirit\nDRUMMERS BARBAROSA SAMBA GROUP\nLary (artist local)\nDJ Yaang KissFM\nDJ DARK\nDJ JUST2\n\n\n1 JUNE – activities on stage – Tricolorului Square – Culture House\n10:00 – 18:00 Art show on stage\, kids from local clubs\, dance academies.\nFEELINGS BAND and Adamas synchro dance\nFELI &(Band)\nADDA & (Band)\n\n\n 1 JUNE – outdoor activities (with road traffic closure)\n\n\nPlacing a soccer field for children\, in front of the Decebal Hotel\, on the street. I S Sturza – Atletico Bacău Academy\n\n\n13:00 – 19:00 learning routes for cyclists on Nicolae Bălcescu – Mără Nicesti street\n\n\nWorkshops and street demonstrations – in the Tricolorului Square and on the way to Mară șiesti;\n\n\n► Workshops of: face-painting\, molded balloons\, colored balloons\, painting\, drawing\, etc.\n► Street theater\, characters on feet\, characters in costumes\, children’s animators\, etc.\n► SPORTS ZONE\n► 5 Inflatable castles for children\, free access 10-19;\n16:00 – 17:00 Synchronous dance – invitation addressed for 4000 people who will create a moment of dancing in the Tricolorului Square and the adjacent streets (Erou Gh. Rusu\, Luminii\, Mără \,esti\, Nicolae Bălcescu\, I. S. Crash. )\n\n\n22:00 Outdoor cinema at the Leisure Island – made by the Student League of “Vasile Alecsandri” University in Bacău
URL:https://www.elfac.org/event/better-future-festival-in-bacau-romania-inclusive-growth-and-families/
LOCATION:Bacau\, Bacau\, Romania
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.elfac.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/bacau-banner.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250606
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250609
DTSTAMP:20261108T152359
CREATED:20250430T085603Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T085856Z
UID:11922-1749168000-1749427199@www.elfac.org
SUMMARY:Zakopane (Poland): XIII National Congress of Large Families
DESCRIPTION:INVITATION\nDear Large Families\, \nFor the 13th time\, we have the pleasure of inviting you to the National Congress of Large Families\, which this time will take place in Zakopane on June 6-8\, 2025.\nWith pride and full conviction\, we announce that the slogan of this year’s Congress is – “Family on top” – which takes on additional meaning\, considering the location of this event. \nWith our slogan\, we want to draw attention to the important role of a well-functioning family. It is like a healthy mountain spring for the whole society\, which\, although small\, can give rise to a great river\, flowing through endless areas\, giving them life-giving water. Such a river gives great development and bears fruit as long as the source is clean and healthy. That is why it is so important to take care of the family\, which we want to draw attention to once again during our Congress. We want to show the world how joyful\, energetic\, well-organized and positive large families can be. We also remind you how little it takes to create optimal conditions for functioning and development for large families. And the benefits from this will be enormous. After all\, large families are the obvious solution to the growing demographic crisis. \nI can’t wait for our meeting in Zakopane\, to once again demonstrate together how much wealth is achieved by a couple who openly welcomes another child into their family. It’s impossible to count\, although we can. And there are more and more of us! \nSee you on June 6! \nRadosław Waszkiewicz and Joanna Krupska\nPresident of the Management Board of the Association of Large Families “Three Plus” – Chairwoman of the National Council of the Association of Large Families “Three Plus” \n  \n  \nPROGRAM\n\nJune 6\, 2025 – Friday\n10:00 – 21:00  Registration of participants of the Congress (on site each family will receive an ID and a full information package) \n10:00-16:00  Time for families to enjoy the attractions in Zakopane \n16:00-17:00  Holy Mass on the occasion of the 28th anniversary of John Paul II’s visit to Podhale and the Tribute to Polish Highlanders – Księżówka Formation and Training Center – for those willing \n17:00-18:00  Start of the evening and welcome of participants \n18:00 – 19:00  Grand opening of the Congress \n19:00 – 21:00  Performances of highland bands and regional dinner \nJune 7\, 2025 – Saturday\n7:30 – 8:30 Registration of Congress participants – Stanisław Ignacy Witkiewicz Theatre Atelier \n7:00 – 9:00 Breakfast at accommodation \n9:00 – 9:30 Gathering of children and youth\, division into groups and going to workshops – Stanisław Ignacy Witkiewicz Theatre Atelier \n10:00-12:45  Workshops and activities for children and youth in small groups \n10:00 – 12:45  Socio-economic panel with special guests – Stanisław Ignacy Witkiewicz Theatre \n13:30 – 15:00 Dinner – Władysław Zamoyski Hotel and Tourism School Complex \n15:00 – 16:00 Influencer panel – Stanisław Ignacy Witkiewicz Theatre Atelier \n16:00-17:00  The voice of the youth – meeting with the Ombudsman for Children’s Rights – Atelier of the Stanisław Ignacy Witkiewicz Theatre \n15:00-18:00 Mountain trips for families with Tatra guides and other attractions for families \n18:00 – 20:00  Zakopane for Big Families \n\nWelcoming of large families by representatives of the City and District\nPresentation of Certificates to Family-Friendly Districts\nConcert at the Lower Rówień Krupowa – Tutki Stand\n\nJune 8\, 2025 – Sunday\n7:30 – 9:00 Breakfast at accommodation \n9:30 – 11:00  Parental competence workshops: “How to survive with a smartphone and not scroll through life?” – prof. Monika Przybysz\, PhD\, Association of Podhale People Zakopane \n12:30 – 13:30 Solemn Holy Mass in the Sanctuary of the Holy Family and a walk through the streets of the city to the lunch venue \n14:30-16:00 Dinner for participants – Władysław Zamoyski Hotel and Tourism School Complex \n  \nContact us\nCoordinators of the 13th National Congress of Large Families in Zakopane: \n\nAnita Marczułajtis-Łodzińska anita.lodzinska@3plus.pl\, tel.600 004 410 – project management\nAgata Opiela agata.opiela@3plus.pl\, tel. 695 850 999 – organization\nKorina Bulenda-Nowak- korina.bulenda@3plus.pl\, tel. 505 670 015 – communication\nAneta Dorobek- aneta.dorobek@3plus.pl – contact for families\n\n  \nMORE INFORMATION HERE
URL:https://www.elfac.org/event/zakopane-poland-xiii-national-congress-of-large-families/
LOCATION:Zakopane\, Zakopane\, Poland
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.elfac.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/30242oryginalZjazd2025-poziom.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Paris:20250606T080000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Paris:20250606T093000
DTSTAMP:20261108T152359
CREATED:20250602T084040Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250602T084811Z
UID:12060-1749196800-1749202200@www.elfac.org
SUMMARY:Building Cities and Neighbourhoods for Children and All Ages
DESCRIPTION:Background\nThe OECD report Cities for All Ages\, supported by the Ministry of Land\, Infrastructure\, Transport\, and Tourism of Japan\, aims to promote key policy actions to create more age-inclusive cities. The share of older people in OECD cities is rising fast\, while many large cities continue to grow and attract young people. Without age-inclusive policies\, cities face significant social and economic consequences\, ranging from poorer health outcomes and higher isolation to workforce loss\, increased public spending\, and brain drain. The Cities for All Ages report explores how local and national governments can address these challenges and make cities work for all generations. It highlights strategies such as adapting urban design and land use planning for more accessible cities\, providing age-friendly housing\, and engaging both young and older people in labour and consumer markets. To drive progress\, the report offers a checklist of nine policy actions across three key areas – strategy setting\, resource development and stakeholder co-ordination – to help local and national governments shape cities for all ages. \nThe project Building Child-Friendly Neighbourhoods\, supported by the Van Leer Foundation\, elaborated an OECD-wide monitoring framework\, which lays out the neighbourhood elements that matter for children’s well-being and development\, and maps available cross-national indicators. The identified neighbourhood elements encompass aspects of the built environment\, communities’ social relationships\, and children’s access to basic services such as schools and health services. An OECD-wide monitoring of children’s neighbourhood conditions can support local and national policy makers in building child-friendly neighbourhoods and in attenuating geographical disparities by facilitating resource allocation\, collaboration across sectors and levels of government\, and cross-country learning with respect to effective policy tools. The project also summarises practical considerations for national and local policy makers and other stakeholders involved in data-driven efforts to improve children’s neighbourhoods. It highlights how locally adapted policy solutions hold greater promise to mitigate the locational disadvantage that some children experience. Moreover\, it emphasises the need for more rigorous implementation and evaluations to increase policies’ effectiveness and gain a more complete understanding of the potential of place-based policies to build stronger neighbourhoods for children. \n  \nFormat of the Meeting\nThe webinar will be held virtually over Zoom. To participate\, please register here. The link with log-in details will be sent to all registered participants. The meeting will be recorded and made publicly available. \n  \nLanguage\nThe meeting will be held in English. \n  \nAgenda\n\n\n10.00-10.05  |  Opening remarks\nSoo-Jin Kim\, Deputy Head of Division\, Cities\, Urban Policies and Sustainable Development\, CFE\, OECD\nCarrie Exton\, Senior Counsellor\, WISE Centre\, OECD \n  \n10.05-10.15  |  Cities for All Ages: Key policy implications\nAndrew Lombardi\, Inclusive Growth in Cities Unit\, CFE\, OECD \n  \n10.15-10.25  |  Building Child-Friendly Neighbourhoods: Key findings\nNora Brüning and Marine Matsumura\, Child Well-Being Unit\, WISE Centre\, OECD \n  \n10.25-11:25  |  Roundtable discussion — Insights from practice\nDr. Ko Young-ho\, Former Director of the Age-Friendly Policy Research Center in Architecture and Urban Research Institute\, Korea\nNational-level support for age-inclusive improvements to the local built environment \nCity\, (TBD)\nLocal efforts and challenges in creating child- and age-friendly cities \nRushda Majeed\, Chief Programme Officer\, Van Leer Foundation\nThe role of non-governmental actors in supporting local leaders and planners – Urban95 initiative \nDiscussion \n• What are some effective models of collaboration between national governments\, local\ngovernments\, non-governmental organisations and communities in creating more inclusive\, child-\nand age-friendly cities?\n• How can national-level policies be tailored to meet the specific\, place-based needs of cities and\nlocal communities?\n• In what ways can monitoring systems and data enhance cross-sectoral collaboration and support\nintegrated policy responses?\n• What are the key political\, institutional\, and practical barriers to scaling successful local initiatives\nand how can governments and non-governmental actors overcome these barriers to mainstream\nchild- and age-friendly approaches into local policies? \n  \n11.25-11.30  |  Closing remarks\nOlivier Thévenon\, Head of the Child Well-Being Unit\, WISE Centre\, OECD\nCamille Viros\, Head of the Inclusive Growth in Cities Unit\, CFE\, OECD \n  \nMore information about this event can be found here\n  \nContacts\nCamille Viros\, Head of the Inclusive Growth in Cities Unit\, OECD Centre for Entrepreneurship\, SMEs\, Regions and Cities (CFE) (Camille.Viros@oecd.org) \nOlivier Thévenon\, Head of the Child Well-Being Unit\, OECD Centre for Well-Being\, Inclusion\, Sustainability and Equal Opportunity (WISE) (Olivier.Thevenon@oecd.org) \n  \n\n 
URL:https://www.elfac.org/event/building-cities-and-neighbourhoods-for-children-and-all-ages/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.elfac.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/City.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Paris:20250716T090000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Paris:20250716T150000
DTSTAMP:20261108T152359
CREATED:20250702T095803Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250730T092554Z
UID:12331-1752656400-1752678000@www.elfac.org
SUMMARY:The Future of Inclusive Tourism
DESCRIPTION:Event agenda: The event will take place across the full day\, starting at 9:00 with breakfast\, followed by the public panel on inclusive family travel from 10:00–11:00\, and networking until noon. Lunch will commence at 1pm until 2pm\, and then a closed-door roundtable session will be hosted from 2-3 pm. \nMorning Panel (10:00–11:00): The morning panel\, titled “Fostering a More Inclusive Travel Experience for Families\,” will set the tone for the day by focusing on how tourism can better serve families across Europe – particularly those facing barriers related to cost\, flexibility\, or lack of access Speakers: \n\n\n\n\nEllen Madeker\, EU Public Policy Lead\, Airbnb\n\n\n\nKaroline Iwersen\, Board Member\, European Large Families Confederation (ELFAC)\n\n\n\nLionel Flasseur\, President\, Essentiem\n\n\n\nEmmanuel Monier\, Secretary General\, EU Travel Tech\n\n\n\n\nThe session will be moderated by Anna Gumbau\, a Brussels-based journalist and experienced moderator. \n\n\n\nAfternoon Roundtable (14:00–15:00): The afternoon session\, “Shaping the Future of Inclusive Travel in Europe\,” is designed as a closed-door\, cross-sector roundtable bringing together a diverse set of stakeholders to exchange best practices and innovative approaches for making tourism more accessible and inclusive. \n\n\n\nSpeakers: \n\n\n\n\nEuropean Disability Forum\n\n\n\nQueer Destinations\n\n\n\nELTA (European LGBTQ+ Travel Alliance)\n\n\n\nENAT (European Network for Accessible Tourism)\n\n\n\nEuropean Travel Commission (ETC)\n\n\n\nInternational Paralympic Committee\n\n\n\nSwiss Diversity\n\n\n\nAirbnb Host Representatives\n\n\n\nEuropean Parliament & European Commission Representatives
URL:https://www.elfac.org/event/the-future-of-inclusive-tourism/
LOCATION:Bump Policy Experience Space\, Pl. du Luxembourg 26\, Brussels\, Ixelles\, 1050\, Belgium
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.elfac.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Untitled-design.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250810
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250817
DTSTAMP:20261108T152359
CREATED:20250408T171038Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250409T095142Z
UID:11846-1754784000-1755388799@www.elfac.org
SUMMARY:A different summer... in Portugal: Family vacation with other large families\, as one big family
DESCRIPTION:“A Different Summer has been a fantastic vacation experience. The socializing\, friendships\, activities (for both kids and adults)\, and logistics (which are important for a large family like ours) in a beautiful setting made us repeat the experience year after year since 2004. And this year\, we plan to return.”\nLuís Antunes Francisco Tomar\, 8 children\n  \n\n    \n                    \n                \n                Loading Viewer...
URL:https://www.elfac.org/event/a-different-summer-in-portugal-family-vacation-with-other-families-as-one-big-family/
LOCATION:Penhas da Saude\, Penhas da Saúde\, Cortes de Meio\, Portugal
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.elfac.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Captura-de-pantalla-2025-04-08-a-las-19.09.14-e1744132190372.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Paris:20250923T143000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Paris:20250923T160000
DTSTAMP:20261108T152359
CREATED:20250917T084640Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250918T081811Z
UID:12578-1758637800-1758643200@www.elfac.org
SUMMARY:European Parliament: Hearing on “Demographic change in Europe: Social challenges and policy responses”
DESCRIPTION:European Parliament\, Bâtiment Paul Henri Spaak\, Rue Wiertz 60\, Brussels\, Brussels\, Belgium \nRoom: ANTALL 4Q1 \nChaired by: Li Andersson\, EMPL Chair \nThe European Parliament Committee on Employment and Social Affairs alongside participating members from the Committee on Civil Liberties\, Justice\, and Home Affairs will be hosting a hearing on the social challenges and policy responses associated with demographic change in Europe. \nWe invite any interested members of our network and representatives of civil society to attend\, to learn about the reality of demographic change\, particularly within the context of the European family. \n\n    \n                    \n                \n                Loading Viewer...
URL:https://www.elfac.org/event/public-empl-hearing-on-demographic-change-in-europe-social-challenges-and-policy-responses/
LOCATION:European Parliament\, Bâtiment Paul Henri Spaak\, Rue Wiertz 60\, Brussels\, Brussels\, 1047\, Belgium
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.elfac.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Screenshot-2025-09-17-at-10.43.25-AM.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Paris:20250925T093000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Paris:20250925T123000
DTSTAMP:20261108T152359
CREATED:20250912T091250Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250922T100446Z
UID:12548-1758792600-1758803400@www.elfac.org
SUMMARY:Presentation of ELFAC and the Better Future Festival project at the European Parliament
DESCRIPTION:ELFAC (the European Large Families Confederation) gathers associations of large families from 24 European countries\, representing more than 60 million of Europeans. \nWith this event\, we want to convey to the European Parliament the reality in Europe\, which is largely unknown and often invisible\, of families with three or more children. We want to highlight their difficulties in a European society that does not adequately recognize the value of these children and often discriminates against or penalizes these families by failing to take their specific needs into account. And what ELFAC is doing in the different countries and at the European and international level (ELFAC was granted consutatitve status at ECOSOC in the United Nations). \nAt the same time\, we will present the European Network of Family-Friendly Municipalities and Regions and the experience of the Better Future Festival project\, initatives of ELFAC\,  which has brought the debate on the European Union’s priorities in four European municipalities from Italy\, Poland\, Romania\, and Spain. \nWe invite members of the European Parliament and representatives of civil society to attend \,to learn about the reality of large families and to move together towards a more family-friendly Europe. \nREGISTRATION HERE\nAGENDA\n09:30: Arrival and accreditation \n10:00 Welcome \n10:15 Keynote: The situation of large families in Europe \n11:00 Interventions of members of the EP (MEP) and civil society \n11:30 Presentation of The European Network of Family-Friendly Municipalities \n11:45 Better Future Festival project. The experience of the municipalities’ partners: \n\nAlghero (Italy)\nBacau (Romania)\nCreixell (Tarragona)\nGdynia (Poland)\n\n12:15 The voice of young people: Manifesto of “The Europe we want”. \n12:30 Conclusion.
URL:https://www.elfac.org/event/presentation-of-elfac-and-the-better-future-festival-project-at-the-european-parliament/
LOCATION:European Parliament\, Bâtiment Paul Henri Spaak\, Rue Wiertz 60\, Brussels\, Brussels\, 1047\, Belgium
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.elfac.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Better-future-festival-elfac-EP.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251104
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251107
DTSTAMP:20261108T152359
CREATED:20250625T111754Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251031T114522Z
UID:12289-1762214400-1762473599@www.elfac.org
SUMMARY:Second World Summit for Social Development
DESCRIPTION:The United Nations General Assembly\, through its resolutions 78/261 and 78/318\, decided to convene the “World Social Summit” in 2025\, under the title “the Second World Summit for Social Development.” Convening at the level of Heads of State or Government\, the summit aims to address the gaps and recommit to the Copenhagen Declaration on Social Development and the Programme of Action and its implementation and give momentum towards the implementation of the 2030 Agenda. The summit will be held in Doha\, Qatar from 4-6 November. \nIn a world facing deepening inequalities\, demographic shifts\, and rapid technological and environmental changes\, the Second World Summit for Social Development provides a crucial platform for global dialogue and collaborative action. It is a unique space for leaders from governments\, international organizations\, non-governmental organizations\, civil society\, the private sector\, academic institutions\, and the UN system to engage on social development issues at the highest level and advance social progress\, ensuring that no one is left behind in our global sustainable development journey. \nMore information here
URL:https://www.elfac.org/event/second-world-summit-for-social-development/
LOCATION:Doha\, Qatar\, Doha\, Qatar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.elfac.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Untitled-design-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Paris:20251104T180000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Paris:20251104T191500
DTSTAMP:20261108T152359
CREATED:20251013T102730Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251013T102730Z
UID:12759-1762279200-1762283700@www.elfac.org
SUMMARY:Panel Discussion - “The New Intergenerational Contract: Social Policy for Europe’s Demographic Transition”
DESCRIPTION:Demographic change will demand a lot from all generations: putting pressure on care networks\, pension systems\, and solidarity. Will people come together to support each other? Or will there be polarisation? What are the policy strategies? Leading experts discuss the impacts of demographic change on welfare states – and how they must be countered to make Europe resilient. \nWhen? Tuesday\, November 4\, 2025 | 18.00 – 19.15\nWhere? Permanent Representation of the Federal Republic of Germany to the EU\, Jacques de Lalaingstraat 8/14\, 1040 Brussels\, Belgium. The event is free but requires registration. \nRegister here (required to attend) | Share event via email | Share event on Linkedin \nwith: \n\nDeša Srsen\, Member of Cabinet of Glenn Micallef\, Commissioner for intergenerational fairness\, youth\, culture and sport\, European Commission\nIdoia Mendia\, Member of the European Parliament\, Member of Committee on Employment and Social Affairs\, Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats in the European Parliament\nMaciej Kucharczyk\, Secretary General of AGE Platform Europe\nChrista Schweng\, European Economic and Social Committee\, Rapporteur on the opinion: “The impact of demography on Social Europe”\nArnstein Aassve\, Professor of Demography\, Principal Investigator of the EU-funded FutuRes project\, Bocconi University\, Milan\, Italy\n\nWelcome Address by Ambassador Dr. Helen Winter
URL:https://www.elfac.org/event/panel-discussion-the-new-intergenerational-contract-social-policy-for-europes-demographic-transition/
LOCATION:Permanent Representation of the Federal Republic of Germany to the EU\, Jacques de Lalaingstraat 8/14\, 1040\, Brussels\, Belgium
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.elfac.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Screenshot-2025-10-13-at-12.26.38-PM.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Paris:20251112T093000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Paris:20251112T123000
DTSTAMP:20261108T152359
CREATED:20251111T164101Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251111T164722Z
UID:12856-1762939800-1762950600@www.elfac.org
SUMMARY:Demographic congress at the European Parliament
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://www.elfac.org/event/demographic-congress-at-the-european-parliament/
LOCATION:European Parliament\, Bâtiment Paul Henri Spaak\, Rue Wiertz 60\, Brussels\, Brussels\, 1047\, Belgium
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.elfac.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/European_Parliament_building_Brussels_3-scaled-e1762879598669.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251120
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251123
DTSTAMP:20261108T152359
CREATED:20251103T095848Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251113T141129Z
UID:12846-1763596800-1763855999@www.elfac.org
SUMMARY:Festival Della Famiglia
DESCRIPTION:The Festival Della Famiglia in Trento\, Italy will focus primarily on families\, offering children and young people a range of activities and workshops at the Muse (November 20) and Castello del Buonconsiglio (November 21-22). The event will also focus on the Family Citadel (at the Caritro Foundation)\, the beating heart and information point for the area. It will be a place where you can find info points dedicated to the activities of the Family Districts and provincial services\, as well as hosting a calendar of workshops and activities for children and families. \nThe event will be held in Trento from November 20 to 22\, 2025\, and its central theme will be “Building Tomorrow\,” highlighting Trentino’s commitment to promoting cutting-edge family policies. The event is organized and coordinated by the Agency for Social Cohesion of the Autonomous Province of Trento in partnership with the University of Trento and with the support of TSM – Trentino School of Management\, Muse\, Castello del Buonconsiglio\, and the Historical Museum of Trento. Among the new features are the “Family Citadel” at the Caritro Foundation and many workshops and recreational activities for families and children. \nFOR INFORMATION:\nAgency for Social Cohesion\nEmail: agenzia.coesionesociale@provincia.tn.it\nMain telephone number: 0461 494110 \nFor the program and more information\, please click here.
URL:https://www.elfac.org/event/festival-della-famiglia/
LOCATION:Trento\, Italy
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.elfac.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Screenshot-2025-11-03-at-10.52.17-AM.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Paris:20260130T143000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Paris:20260130T183000
DTSTAMP:20261108T152359
CREATED:20260119T120421Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260119T121245Z
UID:13164-1769783400-1769797800@www.elfac.org
SUMMARY:ELFAC CONVENTION FOR FAMILY-FRIENDLY COMPANIES in PIACENZA (Italy)
DESCRIPTION:The decline in birth rates and an aging population are beginning to impact local territories and businesses\, which are finding it increasingly difficult to attract and retain young talent. However\, there is a solution within reach: making the workplace and the region more attractive through work life balance\, gender equality\, and inclusion policies. These measures contribute to improving quality of life and supporting the life goals of young people and families—while simultaneously increasing productivity and revenue. \nThese topics will be discussed on January 30th starting at 3:00 PM in Piacenza\, at the G. Piana Congress Hall of the Università Cattolica\, during the convention titled: “NETWORKING COMPANIES. MORE FAMILY\, MORE FUTURE: Good Corporate Welfare Practices in Times of Demographic Crisis.” \nThe event is organized by ANFN (National Association of Large Families) and ELFAC (European Large Families Confederation)\, the Forum of Family Associations\, Confindustria and CNA Piacenza\, and the Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore of Piacenza. \n“ANFN is at the forefront of driving a ‘family-friendly’ shift within the territory and the workplace\, allowing young people and families to have and raise the children they desire with peace of mind\,” says Mario Scuderi\, ANFN coordinator for Emilia Romagna. “The region feels a strong need to take action to stem the brain drain\, depopulation\, and the crisis caused by the demographic decline. We are proposing our solution: a European network of companies that place family well-being at the center. It is good for employees\, but it is also good for businesses\, which see an increase in production and earnings.” \nSilvia Cipelli\, ANFN Piacenza coordinator\, emphasizes that in Piacenza\, ANFN has successfully involved public administration\, civil society\, the economic sector\, and the University in the discussion: “A great opportunity to practically address the theme of family policies and the future of the territory.” \nRegina Maroncelli\, Elfac Vice President\, underlines:“Large families associations can drive the change in Europe\, in municipalities and companies where the urgency to build a better future is the greatest. Elfac is there\, at their side.” \nThe convention\, organized ahead of the launch of the European Network of Family-Friendly Companies on February 11\, 2026\, in Brussels\, aims to present practical examples of corporate welfare. These practices improve employees’ quality of life and contribute to the growth of social capital both locally and within the company\, following the spirit of an international network capable of generating innovation\, development\, and new opportunities. \nParticipation is free and open to all\, particularly to companies\, public administrators\, and families. Registration via Eventbrite is recommended  https://www.eventbrite.com/organizations/events \n\n \nPROGRAM\n14:30 – WELCOME AND REGISTRATION \n15:00 – INSTITUTIONAL GREETINGS / OPENING REMARKS \n\nMarco Allena\, Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Law\, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore (Piacenza Campus)\nNicoletta Corvi\, Councilor for Welfare and Family Policies\, Municipality of Piacenza\nAlfredo Caltabiano\, President\, National Association of Large Families (Associazione Nazionale Famiglie Numerose)\nAntonio Schillani\, President\, Forum of Family Associations of Piacenza\n\n15:30 – “NETWORKED COMPANIES” PROJECT (PROGETTO AZIENDE IN RETE) \n\nFrancesco Timpano Full Professor\, Università Cattolica of Piacenza “The role of corporate welfare in companies’ social reporting”\nGabriele Zelioli Labour Consultant “What a company can do for its employees”\nRegina Maroncelli Vice President\, European Large Families Confederation “European Network of Family-Friendly Companies: Why family welfare pays off for businesses”\n\n16:15 – BEST PRACTICES: STORIES OF COMPANIES INVESTING IN EMPLOYEE’S WELL-BEING \n\nPaola Bardasi\, General Director\, AUSL Piacenza (Local Health Authority)\nAnna Cattaneo and Alessia Pezzotta\, Sustainability Manager and HR Specialist\, Plastik SPA\nMario Spezia\, President\, Con.Coop.ar and Coop. San Martino (Workers’ Cooperative of Piacenza)\nFilippo Gasparini\, President\, Agripiacenza Latte Consortium\n\n17:00 – ROUND TABLE: THE DEMOGRAPHIC CHALLENGE AND THE LOCAL TERRITORY \n\nNicoletta Corvi\, Councilor for Welfare and Family Policies\, Municipality of Piacenza\nCristina Crenna\, President\, CNA Piacenza (National Confederation of Crafts and Small and Medium Enterprises)\nMaria Angela Spezia\, Vice President\, Confindustria Piacenza\nMario Lucenti\, Director\, Compagnia delle Opere Emilia\nGuido Picozzi\, Executive Director\, BNI Piacenza\nFrancesco Bighi\, Trade Union Representative\, UIL Piacenza\nMichele Vaghini\, Trade Union Representative\, CISL Piacenza\nIvo Bussacchini\, Trade Union Representative\, CGIL Piacenza\n\n18:15 – CLOSING REMARKS \n\n\nRegina Maroncelli \n\n\n18:30 – APERITIF
URL:https://www.elfac.org/event/elfac-convention-for-family-friendly-companies-in-piacenza/
LOCATION:Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore of Piacenza.\, Via Emilia Parmense\, 84\, Piacenza PC\, Emilia-Romagna\, 29122\, Italy
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.elfac.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Screenshot-2026-01-19-130026.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Paris:20260211T093000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Paris:20260211T170000
DTSTAMP:20261108T152359
CREATED:20251001T100855Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260209T193949Z
UID:12682-1770802200-1770829200@www.elfac.org
SUMMARY:5TH EUROPEAN CONGRESS OF THE EUROPEAN NETWORK OF FAMILY- FRIENDLY MUNICIPALITIES
DESCRIPTION:FREE TO STAY\, FAMILY AND COHESION POLICIES FOR TERRITORIAL DEVELOPMENT \n\n\n\nCreating inclusive\, welcoming\, and cohesive policies for community development is a core pillar of a family-friendly Europe. \n\n\n\nWe are looking to hear about best practices in your municipality at the 5th European Congress of the European Network of family-friendly Municipalities\, which is set to take place in the European Committee of the Regions (CoR) in Brussels\, Belgium\, on 11 February 2026. \n\n\n\nIf your municipality would like to present a good practice in the Congress\, please let us know as soon as possible at info@elfac.org. \nREGISTRATION IS OPENED HERE\n  \n\n\n\nWednesday 11 February 2026 \nBRUSSELS\, COMMITTEE OF THE REGIONS\, ROOM JDE 51  \nFrom 9:30am to 17:00pm \n \nDraft Program\n09:30 Welcome and registration \nModerator: Raul Sanchez\, secretary general of ELFAC \n10:00 Opening \n\nRadoslaw Waszkiewicz\, president of ELFAC\nRegina Maroncelli\, coordinator of the Family Cities Network\n\n10:10 How local family policies can improve European cohesion \n\nRaffaele Fitto\, Executive Vice-President for Cohesion and Reforms\, European Commission. \n\n10:15: Delivery of diplomas to new municipalities members \n10:30 Territorial attractiveness\, innovation and people \n\nLuciano Malfer\, Research and Family Development Manager\, Fondazione Bruno Kessler (Trento\, Italy)\n\n11:05 Cohesion policies for family friendly regions \n\nVania Freitas\, secretary general\, Assembly of European Regions (AER)\n\n11:25 Towards a resilient future of Europe: the role of municipalities in the demographic change \n\nMichał Michalski\, President\, Institute for Family and Society Studies Foundation\, (Poland)\n\n11: 45 Co-creating Work-Life Balance locally \n\nMercedes Hernandez\,  director for alliances and international relations\, Fundacion Masfamilia (Spain).\n\n12:05 Questions and answers \n12:20 Signature of the agreements between ELFAC and MasFamilia Foundation (Spain)\, and with Bruno Kessler Foundation (Italy) \n\nFamily photo with participants.\n\n12:30 Lunch \n14:00 Presentation of the European Network for Family-Friendly Companies \n\nRegina Maroncelli\, coordinator of the network\, vice president of ELFAC\nPractical case: Corporate welfare designed for families: support for parenting – Anna Cattaneo and Alessia Pezzotta\, Plastik SPA (Italy)\n\n14:30 2nd KINCS Family Friendly Settlements Expo \n\nÁrpád Mészáros\, Vice-President of KINCS Institute for Demography and Family Policies (Hungary).\n\n14:45 Presentation of local best practices from municipalities and companies \n\nTackling the housing emergency: The Calico project of co-housing – Juliette Schmetz\, Brussels capital region (Belgium).\nKraków – an open and family-friendly city. Selected solutions for strengthening the cohesion of social and migration policy and territorial development (good practices) – Malgorzata Wawrzynska\, Municipality of Krakow (Poland)\nThe Alghero Family Festival – Maria Grazia Salaris and Mauro Ledda\, Municipality of Alghero (Italy)\nYouth Communication Program – Alberto Vidal Guerrero\, Municipality of Castellon (Spain)\nDemographic Change and Territorial Cohesion: Local Family Policies in Albergaria-a-Velha – Catarina Mendes and Mariana Letra\, Municipality of Albergaria-a-Velha (Portugal)\nBest practices in family support – Municipality of Galapagar (Spain)\nEmpowering Families – The Foligno Model – Lorenzo Schiarea\, Municipality of Foligno (Italy)\n“Elefantes de Papel”: municipal program for families with children with disabilities – Mª del Carmen Portugal and Juan Octavio Sempere\, Municipality of Orihuela (Spain)\nBrașov\, a family-friendly city – Diaconu Pamela Maria\, Municipality of Brașov (Romania)\nTo be born and raised in Torres Vedras – Sílvia Silva\, Municipality of Torres Vedras (Portugal)\nLiving in a Small Mountain Village at the Beginning of the Third Millennium. Is It Still Possible? – Elisa Bolis and Diego Mosca\, Municipality of Berbenno (Italy)\n\n16:45 Questions and answers \n17:00 Conclusions
URL:https://www.elfac.org/event/5th-european-congress-of-the-european-network-of-family-friendly-municipalities/
LOCATION:European Committee of the Regions (CoR)\, Rue Bellard 99\, Brussels\, 1000\, Belgium
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.elfac.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/5th-Congress-of-the-European-Network-of-Family-Friendly-Municipalities-1-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Paris:20260226T180000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Paris:20260226T193000
DTSTAMP:20261108T152359
CREATED:20260220T123928Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260304T113430Z
UID:13430-1772128800-1772134200@www.elfac.org
SUMMARY:ELFAC TOUR: Spanish Federation of Large Families (FEFN)
DESCRIPTION:ELFAC Tour consists of a series of online meetings with our member associations\, with the aim of getting to know their best practices and learning from each other\, in order to enhance the effectiveness of our work in favour of large families. \nAll ELFAC member associations are invited to participate. \nTo receive the link to the meeting\, please register using the form below: \nREGISTRATION \nThe programme will be as follows (CET time): \n18:00 Presentation\n18:05 Activites and best practices of FEFN\n18:50 Questions and answers\n19:15 End
URL:https://www.elfac.org/event/elfac-tour-spanish-federation-of-large-families-fefn/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.elfac.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/ELFAC-TOUR-.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Paris:20260305T093000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Paris:20260305T133000
DTSTAMP:20261108T152359
CREATED:20260216T111429Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260304T113415Z
UID:13338-1772703000-1772717400@www.elfac.org
SUMMARY:The Future of Cities Forum
DESCRIPTION:How can Europe’s cities remain livable\, affordable\, and welcoming – for both residents and visitors? \nOn 5 March\, we’ll bring together policymakers\, city leaders\, industry experts\, and urban innovators to explore how better collaboration can shape smarter policies for Europe’s cities. The discussion will focus on urban challenges in the areas of housing\, tourism\, and quality of life – and the solutions needed to address them together. \nThis high-level event will serve as a call to action for stakeholders to join the Future of Cities Coalition\, a new pan-European initiative fostering cross-sector dialogue and practical solutions for cities across Europe. \nELFAC is one of the promoters of this coalition. Regina Maroncelli\, vicep president and coordinator of the European Network of Family-Friendly Municipalities\, will take part in the panel discussion: ‘Building livable and inclusive cities: How can Europe’s cities remain affordable and welcoming for both residents and visitors?‘. \nJoin the conversation. Let’s shape the cities we want to live in and visit.  \n  \n\nProgramme \n\n\n\n\n\n\nThursday\, March 5\, 2026\n\n\nArrival & Coffee\n9:30 AM – 10:00 AM\n\n\nWelcome by Juliette Langlais\, Director\, Public Policy and Campaigns EMEA\, Airbnb\n10:00 AM – 10:05 AM\n\n\nKeynote Speech by Pierpaolo Settembri\, Deputy Head of Cabinet for the European Commissioner in charge of Sustainable Transport and Tourism\n10:05 AM – 10:20 AM\n\n\nFireside Chat with Nathan Blecharczyk\, Co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer\, Airbnb\n10:20 AM – 10:40 AM\n\n\n“The Future of Cities” – Keynote Speech by Carlo Ratti\, Director of the MIT Senseable City Lab and Founding Partner of CRA-Carlo Ratti Association\n10:40 AM – 11:00 AM\n\n\nCoffee Break\n11:00 AM – 11:30 AM\n\n\nPanel Discussion: Building livable and inclusive cities: How can Europe’s cities remain affordable and welcoming for both residents and visitors?\n11:30 AM – 12:15 PM\n\n\nNetworking Lunch\n12:15 PM – 1:30 PM\n\n\n\nFor more information\, and to register for this event\, click here.
URL:https://www.elfac.org/event/the-future-of-cities-forum/
LOCATION:TheMerode\, Place Poelaert 6\, Brussels\, 1000\, Belgium
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.elfac.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/future-of-cities-scaled.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Paris:20260501T000000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Paris:20260501T200000
DTSTAMP:20261108T152359
CREATED:20260420T082440Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260430T093024Z
UID:13726-1777593600-1777665600@www.elfac.org
SUMMARY:Large Family Day at Riga Zoo
DESCRIPTION:This is the 4th year in a row when Latvian Large Families Association invites all large families to celebrate Large Families Day in Riga Zoo!\n\n\nCome on the 1st of May and welcome the beginning of the summer season with a colourful festive programme – educational and creative workshops\, exciting activities throughout the zoo territory\, a stage programme with performances and surprises\, as well as special moments dedicated to large families. \n\n\nOn May 1st\, the entrance ticket price for large families\, upon presentation of the “Goda ģimenes karte” (Large Family Card)\, is 15.00 EUR.\n\nThe Large Family ticket applies to two adults and all the children of the family\, provided that all family members can present a valid identity document and a valid large family certificate – Goda ģimenes karte (Latvia)\, Perekaart (Estonia)\, or Šeimos kortelė (Lithuania).The entrance ticket is valid only on 01.05.2026.
URL:https://www.elfac.org/event/large-family-day-at-riga-zoo/
LOCATION:Riga zoo\, Meža prospekts 1\, Ziemeļu rajon\, Riga\, LV-1014\, Latvia
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.elfac.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/riga-zoo-2026.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Paris:20260501T080000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Paris:20260501T170000
DTSTAMP:20261108T152359
CREATED:20260420T092508Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260430T152407Z
UID:13758-1777622400-1777654800@www.elfac.org
SUMMARY:Celebrating Talent and Family in Romania: National Gala of Talented Children from Large Families
DESCRIPTION:An inspiring initiative that brings together talent\, dedication\, and the strength of family\, the “National Gala of Talented Children from Large Families” will be organized by the Romanian Large Families Association (ASFANU) on May 1\, 2026\, at Wonderland Resort in Cluj-Napoca. \n \nChildren aged 6 to 18\, coming from families with three or more children across the country\, have the opportunity to take part in this unique competition\, designed to highlight their creativity and talents in a wide range of fields\, including music\, dance\, visual arts\, sports\, science\, and other special skills.On May 1\, 2026\, their talent will be celebrated on stage at Wonderland Resort Cluj Napoca\, where the finalists will have the opportunity to perform in front of an audience and receive the recognition they truly deserve. \nThis year’s edition has reached a remarkable milestone: 146 children and teenagers (aged 6–18) coming from families with 3 to 11 children from 20 counties have entered the competition. Their talents span across multiple disciplines that reflects not only the richness of talent\, but also the opportunities that grow and flourish within large families. Participants will be evaluated by a distinguished jury of public figures and professionals from Romania: Elvira Deatcu (actress and mother of 2 children)\, Calin Goia (musician and father of 3 children)\, Ioana Mârza (entrepreneur and mother of 4 chidren)\, Laura Cosoi (actress and mother of 4 children and expecting the 5th)\, and Adriana Scripcariu (artist and mother of six). Their mission is to select 21 winners\, each of whom will receive multiple prizes\, including financial awards\, products\, and access to online workshops focused on mentoring and personal development. \nWhy this Gala matters \nThe event takes place in a challenging demographic context. With only 157\,270 births recorded in Romania in 2024\, the declining birth rate is an increasing concern. At the same time\, the more than 314\,000 households with three or more children in Romania remain a vital pillar of stability\, contributing significantly to the country’s demographic balance. \nThrough this Gala\, ASFANU brings much-needed visibility to these families and highlights the extraordinary potential of their children. \nAbout Romanian Large Families Association (ASFANU – Asociatia Familiilor Numeroase) \nThe Romanian Large Families Association (ASFANU) is a non-profit and apolitical organization dedicated to supporting families with three or more children. Since its founding in 2016\, ASFANU has worked to improve living conditions for large families\, promote family values\, and advocate for their recognition as a cornerstone of society’s future.
URL:https://www.elfac.org/event/celebrating-talent-and-family-in-romania-national-gala-of-talented-children-from-large-families/
LOCATION:Wonderland Resort\, PHCQ+7J\, 407270\, Cluj-Napoca\, Romania
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.elfac.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/JURIU-Gala-ASFANU.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Paris:20260515T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Paris:20260515T163000
DTSTAMP:20261108T152359
CREATED:20260304T120429Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260316T085516Z
UID:13575-1778857200-1778862600@www.elfac.org
SUMMARY:International Day Of Families 2026: Families\, Inequalities and Child Wellbeing
DESCRIPTION:The 2026 International Day of Families with a theme Families\, Inequalities and Child Wellbeing aims to contribute to enhanced global understanding of how inequalities undermine family and child wellbeing and promote investments in integrated family-oriented policies. \n\n\n\nThe event will highlight good practices in family policymaking to reduce inequalities and promote child wellbeing and share international good practices\, including universal child benefits\, parental leave systems\, affordable early childhood education\, and community-based family support services. \nThe event will contribute to fostering dialogue among Member States\, UN agencies\, policy experts\, and civil society organizations and contribute to increased commitment to the implementation of family-oriented policies and programmes. Moreover\, the observance will examine issues relating to the Doha Political Declaration of the Second World Summit for Social Development\, including integrating the role of the family as a central enabler and contributor to social development and promoting social and economic policies that are designed to meet the needs of families and their individual members and promote investments in early childhood development. \nDate and time: 15 May\, 10:00 – 11:30 a.m (EST)\nVenue: UNHQ\, New York\, CR8 \nThe event is open to the public and will be webcast at: https://webtv.un.org/en. \nFor more information\, click here: Background Note
URL:https://www.elfac.org/event/international-day-of-families-2026-families-inequalities-and-child-wellbeing/
LOCATION:UN Headquarters in New York
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://www.elfac.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/international-day-of-families.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260529
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260602
DTSTAMP:20261108T152359
CREATED:20260529T134225Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260529T134225Z
UID:13927-1780012800-1780358399@www.elfac.org
SUMMARY:Bacau (Romania): Children and Family Festival 2026
DESCRIPTION:Considering the importance of celebrating June 1st – International Children’s Day\, an event dedicated to promoting children’s rights\, their harmonious development\, and the strengthening of family relationships\, the Municipality of Bacău\, in cooperation with the European Large Families Confederation (ELFAC) and the European Network of Family-Friendly Cities\, is organizing the “Children and Family Festival 2026”\, taking place from May 29 to June 1\, 2026.
URL:https://www.elfac.org/event/bacau-romania-children-and-family-festival-2026/
LOCATION:Bacau\, Bacau\, Romania
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.elfac.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/1-iunie-ziua-copilului.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Paris:20260530T080000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Paris:20260602T170000
DTSTAMP:20261108T152359
CREATED:20260218T124524Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260220T160008Z
UID:13406-1780128000-1780419600@www.elfac.org
SUMMARY:National Assembly of the Italian Large Families Association ANFN – Misano Adriatico (RN)
DESCRIPTION:All members who are up to date with their 2026 membership fees are invited to participate in the National Assembly from May 30\, 2026\, to June 2\, 2026\, in Misano Adriatico (RN).\n\n\n\nPeople outside the immediate family (spouses and children) are responsible for the full cost of their stay. \n\n\n\nPlease note that the contribution made available by ANFN is intended to facilitate the participation of families in the assembly’s work and not to finance a vacation. We have decided to include a day of leisure\, but the main objective of the meeting remains participation and discussion on the future of ANFN. \n\n\n\nProgram\n\n\n\n(Subject to change in case of organizational needs) \n\n\n\nSaturday\, May 30 Arrival in Misano Adriatico “Villaggio San Pellegrino” \n\n\n\nVia dei Platani\, 86 – Google Maps \n\n\n\nCheck-in from 3:00 p.m. \n\n\n\nRegistration and room allocation \n\n\n\n7:30 p.m. Dinner \n\n\n\nSunday\, May 31 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. Breakfast \n\n\n\n9:00 a.m. Association business and start of entertainment \n\n\n\n1:00 p.m. Lunch \n\n\n\n3:00 p.m. Association business and start of entertainment \n\n\n\n6:30 p.m. Holy Mass \n\n\n\n7:30 p.m. Dinner \n\n\n\n9:00 p.m. Family party \n\n\n\nMonday\, June 1 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. Breakfast \n\n\n\nThis day is dedicated to excursions (the costs indicated are to be paid by the family). Individual members can choose one of the following destinations: \n\n\n\n\nOption A: Mirabilandia Park\n\n\n\n\nOne of the largest parks in Italy\, with a special focus on the whole family. In 2025\, a new area called “Nickelodeon Land” was inaugurated\, dedicated to younger children. (Young adults\, teenagers\, and children €15.00; children under 4 free.) \n\n\n\n\nOption B: Queen Elisabeth Motorboat\n\n\n\n\nPanoramic tour along the San Bartolo nature reserve with a visit to the mussel farms and a brief explanation. (Adults\, young people\, children €15.00\, children aged 0 to 12 free). 150 places available. \n\n\n\n\nOption C: Village of Gradara\n\n\n\n\nThe history of Gradara is linked to the fortress\, which stands on a hill (142 m above sea level) on the border between Marche and Emilia-Romagna\, offering a strategic position and breathtaking views. It is a place rich in history and memories\, and each visit offers a unique and unrepeatable atmosphere. You can stroll inside the castle and along its walls\, over drawbridges and through elegant courtyards. The interior recalls the splendor of the powerful families who ruled here: the Malatesta\, the Sforza\, and the Della Rovere. (Adults €15.00\, children and young people aged 0 to 18 free\, young people aged 19 to 25 €5.00). 120 places available \n\n\n\n\nOption D: Piadina Museum\n\n\n\n\nA journey through the history of Romagna piadina! A real museum where you can discover the origins of Romagna bread and much more… immerse yourself in the essence of Romagna with a visit to rooms dedicated to Romagna cycling champions and the master filmmaker Federico Fellini from Rimini. (Adults\, children aged 15 and over €10.00\, children aged 5-14 €6.00\, children aged 0-4 free). 120 places available. \n\n\n\n1:00 p.m. Lunch (except for those who choose Mirabilandia Park\, who will have a packed lunch). \n\n\n\n7:30 p.m. Dinner \n\n\n\n9:00 p.m. Association party \n\n\n\nTuesday\, June 2 7:30-8:30 a.m. Breakfast \n\n\n\n9:00 a.m. Final assembly meeting \n\n\n\n12:30 p.m. Lunch followed by departures \n\n\n\nFurther details \n\n\n\nHotel (full board): \n\n\n\n\nmaximum cost for families €350.00\, except for Sardinia and Sicily\, where the cost is €100.00. Plus the cost of excursions;\n\n\n\nfor those who wish\, it is possible to extend the stay until Saturday 6 June\, with the cost of the extra days to be paid in full by the family;\n\n\n\nmaximum contribution to expenses for families who are not staying at the hotel but are participating in the assembly: €75.00 regardless of region of origin\, including meals (excluding breakfast\, the picnic basket for the June 1st outing\, and dinner on Saturday). Plus the cost of excursions.\n\n\n\n\nTravel expenses are the responsibility of the family. For those who wish\, buses will be organized. (more detailed information will follow based on requests). \n\n\n\n\nContribution for the bus: €30.00 per person (round trip).\n\n\n\nContribution for shuttles to and from Bologna and Rimini airports for those arriving by plane\, and to and from Rimini station for those arriving by train: €5.00 per person per trip.\n\n\n\nEntertainment for children not belonging to the family unit: €5.00\n\n\n\nPeople outside the family unit pay the full price\n\nFor special requests and information\, please write to: assembleagiugno2026@famiglienumerose.org \n\n\n\nTo participate in the assembly event\, register by midnight on Friday\, May 15\, by accessing the EVENTS SECTION IN THE MEMBERS’ AREA at https://abramo.famiglienumerose.org/area-famiglia/login \n\n\n\nTo participate in the meeting\, please register by midnight on Friday\, May 15\, by accessing the EVENTS SECTION IN THE MEMBERS’ AREA at https://abramo.famiglienumerose.org/area-famiglia/login \n\n\n\nIMPORTANT: \n1) The choice of trip and the request for entertainment can be found in the list of participants. On your cell phone\, be sure to scroll horizontally to the right through the list of participants to view the relevant columns. \n\n\n\n2) Once you have filled out the form with your details\, the system will show you a summary of the costs. Only after clicking on “CONFIRM” will your registration request be sent.
URL:https://www.elfac.org/event/national-assembly-misano-adriatico-rn/
LOCATION:Via dei Platani\, 86
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.elfac.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/assembly-event.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Paris:20260626T093000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Paris:20260626T163000
DTSTAMP:20261108T152359
CREATED:20260610T111005Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260610T111005Z
UID:13992-1782466200-1782491400@www.elfac.org
SUMMARY:3rd International Conference on Family Policy & Early Childhood
DESCRIPTION:FOUNDATION FOR THE FUTURE\n3rd International Conference on Family Policy & Early Childhood\n“FAMILY FORMATION”\n  \n\n\n\nAbout the Event \nThe family has long been regarded as the cornerstone of society. Yet today\, families face unprecedented challenges\, including declining birth rates\, relationship instability\, and growing levels of anxiety\, loneliness\, and depression among young people. \nThe Federation of Catholic Family Associations in Europe (FEFAF)\, in collaboration with the Centre for Social Justice and the Prenatal Alliance\, invites you to join leading experts\, policymakers\, researchers\, and advocates for a one-day international conference exploring the future of family formation and early childhood. \nTogether\, we will examine the social\, economic\, and cultural forces shaping relationships\, parenthood\, and family life across Europe and beyond. \nKey Discussion Themes\n1. To Commit or Not to Commit? \n\nModern dating and relationships\nThe impact of dating apps and “situationships”\nMarriage\, commitment\, and starting a family in today’s world\n\n2. Conception to Birth: A Critical Time of Development \n\nSupporting parents during pregnancy\nSocial and economic pressures facing expectant families\nPreparing for parenthood and healthy child development\n\n3. It’s the Economy\, Stupid! \n\nHousing\, taxation\, welfare\, and student debt\nFinancial barriers to family formation\nHow public policy influences family decisions\n\nFeatured Speakers\n\nHarry Benson – Marriage Foundation\nStephen Shaw – Data Scientist & Demographer\nLaura Uplinger – ANEP Brasil\nCarla Machado – ANEP Brasil\nKajsa Granberg – Sweden\nEdward Davies – Centre for Social Justice\n\nWhy Attend?\n✔ Engage with international experts and thought leaders✔ Explore innovative family and social policy solutions✔ Network with professionals\, researchers\, and advocates✔ Contribute to an important conversation about the future of families \nRegistration & Enquiries\nTo reserve your place or request further information\, please contact:\nAnne Fennell📧 presidentfefaf@gmail.com \nJoin us for this vital discussion shaping the future of family life and early childhood.
URL:https://www.elfac.org/event/3rd-international-conference-on-family-policy-early-childhood/
LOCATION:16 Smith Square\, 16 Smith Square\, Westminster\, London\, SW1P 3HQ\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.elfac.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/foto-web-4.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Paris:20260714T153000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Paris:20260714T170000
DTSTAMP:20261108T152359
CREATED:20260706T090527Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260713T115611Z
UID:14495-1784043000-1784048400@www.elfac.org
SUMMARY:Regions\, Cities\, Municipalities and the Local Economy at the Heart of Europe’s Housing Debate
DESCRIPTION:Workshop – Tuesday\, 14 July 2026\, 15:30 CEST (90 MIN)\nEuropean Committee of the Regions (Room JDE 70)\, Batiment Jacques Delors\, Rue Belliard 99/101\, Brussels \nEurope’s housing debate has entered a decisive phase. With the EU Short-Term Rental Regulation applicable since 20 May 2026 and the forthcoming Affordable Housing Act shaping the next political agenda\, the key question is what role the European Union can and should play where housing markets\, regional responsibilities and economic conditions differ widely across Europe. \nShort-term rentals illustrate this complexity. In some cities and tourism-intensive regions\, they are discussed in relation to housing availability\, infrastructure capacity\, and affordability. In others\, they are linked to tourism\, family-owned accommodation\, local services\, seasonal income\, entrepreneurship\, and the wider visitor economy. The same policy issue can therefore raise different questions depending on local housing supply\, tourism intensity\, demographic trends\, and regional economic structures. \nThe workshop will discuss how the new EU rules can support evidence-based local and regional policymaking\, and how short-term rentals can contribute to strengthening the local economies. It will also address questions around resilient housing markets\, competitiveness\, proportionate regulation\, financing conditions\, and practical support for buying\, renovating\, and financing homes. \nA central part of the discussion will be where the EU can add value — for example through transparency\, comparable data\, regulatory clarity\, access to finance\, investment support\, guidance for homebuyers and the exchange of best practices — and where EU-level action may reach its limits because housing pressures\, market structures and economic effects are highly local. This raises the broader question of whether further EU intervention would provide practical added value\, or whether local\, regional and national approaches are better placed to address specific housing-market realities. This also connects to the EU’s wider “Right to Stay” agenda: housing affordability is one of the practical conditions that can influence whether people are able to remain in the communities they call home. \nThe aim is a frank and practical exchange between local and regional representatives\, Members of the European Parliament\, host associations\, platforms\, business representatives\, and housing-market stakeholders. At its core\, the event asks how Europe can address housing challenges in a way that is place-based\, proportionate\, economically realistic and financially sustainable — while also examining where European coordination can support better outcomes and where decision-making may need to remain closer to the cities\, municipalities\, regions\, residents\, workers\, entrepreneurs and local businesses that will experience\, invest in and implement the outcomes on the ground.\nCo-Organizer: Deutscher Landkreistag. \nKinga Joó\, vicepresident of ELFAC\, will be one of the speakers. \nTo see the program and to register for this event\, click here.
URL:https://www.elfac.org/event/regions-cities-municipalities-and-the-local-economy-at-the-heart-of-europes-housing-debate/
LOCATION:European Committee of the Regions (CoR)\, Rue Bellard 99\, Brussels\, 1000\, Belgium
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.elfac.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/foto-web-3.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260727
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260803
DTSTAMP:20261108T152359
CREATED:20260610T090606Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260731T110216Z
UID:13964-1785110400-1785715199@www.elfac.org
SUMMARY:The International Summer School on Bioethics and Human Rights (ISSBHR)
DESCRIPTION:Organized by WYA Europe in collaboration withWYA Croatia\, the program will bring together 40 young participants from around the world\, alongside renowned experts in the field of bioethics and human rights. Building on the success of previous editions\, which have welcomed over 350 participants since 2018\, ISSBHR continues to provide a unique international learning experience. \nThe ISSBHR aims to offer an in-depth educational program addressing key bioethical issues that may challenge or endanger human dignity\, while equipping young people with the tools to respond to these challenges. Through the analysis of medical research\, legal frameworks\, and philosophical principles\, participants will develop a comprehensive understanding of the field. The program includes interactive lectures\, discussions\, debates\, and workshops led by international experts in medicine\, law\, and philosophy\, allowing participants to strengthen their argumentation\, public speaking\, and advocacy skills. \nThe program is open to young people aged 18–30 with a good level of English and a demonstrated interest in bioethics and human rights. Throughout the week\, participants will engage with topics such as the philosophical foundations of bioethics\, the ethical implications of emerging technologies and transhumanism\, debates surrounding abortion and euthanasia\, gender theory\, demographic challenges\, and the role of policy and advocacy in defending human dignity. \nThanks to the donations of our supporters\, the fee of participation is lower. The regular registration fee is 250 Euros for students and unemployed youth or 320 Euros for employed youth. The fee includes accommodation for 7 days and 6 nights\, 3 meals a day\, working materials and local transportation in Šibenik for joint visits to the fortresses\, old town and trips to the beach. \nMore information and applications here\n 
URL:https://www.elfac.org/event/the-international-summer-school-on-bioethics-and-human-rights-issbhr/
LOCATION:Šibenik\, Croatia\, 22000\, Croatia (Local Name: Hrvatska)
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.elfac.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/foto-web-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260824
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260827
DTSTAMP:20261108T152359
CREATED:20260610T091216Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260731T110141Z
UID:13973-1787529600-1787788799@www.elfac.org
SUMMARY:14th International Advocacy Workshop
DESCRIPTION:How do we better protect the most vulnerable?\n\n\n\n\n\nFour student research teams in four countries show where family-centred approaches make a measurable difference and where the gaps remain\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFrom fieldwork to the United Nations\, this is where research becomes advocacy\, and advocacy becomes change\n\n\nVENUE\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIPC – Facultés libres de philosophie et de psychologie\n70 Avenue Denfert-Rochereau\, 75014 Paris \n24-26 August 2026\n\n\n\nREGISTRATION\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAcross Europe\, social services are under pressure that grows with each passing year. Child protection agencies are stretched thin. Mental health services face waiting times measured in months\, not days. Care systems for the elderly and people with disabilities are strained to their structural limits. Social assistance programmes\, designed as safety nets\, are increasingly carrying the weight they were never built to hold. The European Commission\, Eurostat\, the OECD\, and the Council of Europe have all documented this trajectory in detail\, and national research bodies across the continent have confirmed it at the local level. The numbers are consistent. The trend is not reversing. \n\n\n\n\n\nWhen families are strong\, fewer people fall through the cracks.\nWhen they weaken\, social services pay the price. It is time to act on the evidence.\n\n\n\n\n\nYet behind these figures lies a structural reality that policy debates rarely name directly: the gradual weakening of the family as the primary unit of social solidarity. This is not a nostalgic observation. It is a practical one. When families are stable and supported\, they provide what no public institution can fully replicate — daily care\, emotional continuity\, long-term accompaniment through difficulty\, and the quiet but essential transfers of support between generations. When families struggle — through poverty\, breakdown\, isolation\, illness\, or simple lack of community — the state must step in. And no state system\, however competent or well-funded\, can substitute for those bonds in full. The data make this visible: rising rates of family breakdown\, growing numbers of children in alternative care\, increasing proportions of elderly people without close family networks\, and adults navigating hardship alone. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nInvesting seriously in families is not a conservative talking point or a values-laden preference.\nIt is an evidence-based response to social vulnerability — one that deserves to sit at the centre of European social policy.\n\n\n\n\n\nIt is a rare opportunity to see the full chain — from months of fieldwork in four countries\, to the advocacy rooms of international institutions\, to the concrete question of how policy can be shaped in favour of families and those who depend on them. Whether you come as a student\, a researcher\, an NGO professional\, or a policymaker\, your expertise and your perspective belong in this conversation. We invite you to engage fully — and to leave better equipped to turn knowledge into change. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIPC — Facultés Libres de Philosophie et de Psychologie — trains students in philosophy\, psychology\, and the social sciences with a strong emphasis on applied knowledge and ethical engagement with the world. This Erasmus+ programme organized with IFFD is a direct expression of that mission. It is designed to close the gap between research and impact — to give students real experience of how knowledge is gathered\, analysed\, and then transformed into advocacy that reaches policymakers. \nMore information and Applications Here
URL:https://www.elfac.org/event/14th-international-advocacy-workshop/
LOCATION:70 Avenue Denfert-Rochereau\, 75014 Paris\, 70 Avenue Denfert-Rochereau\, Paris\, 75014\, France
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.elfac.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/ipc02.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Paris:20260909T170000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Paris:20260909T183000
DTSTAMP:20261108T152359
CREATED:20260731T105852Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260908T071508Z
UID:14724-1788973200-1788978600@www.elfac.org
SUMMARY:European Parliament: Panel on Housing Policies and Families in Europe
DESCRIPTION:PANEL ON HOUSING POLICIES AND FAMILIES IN EUROPE \nPutting families at the heart of Europe’s housing and urban future \nBrussels\, European Parliament\, Room Spinelli 1H1 \nFrom 5\,00 to 6\,30 pm – 09 September 2026 \nOrganized by the European Large Families Confederation (ELFAC)\, the European Network of Family-Friendly Municipalities\, the Coalition for the Future of Cities and the Intergroup on Demography of the European Parliament \n“Access to affordable housing is a serious concern for many across Europe. To tackle this issue\, we need joint efforts from different sides and a wide range of measures. We are taking action to help Member States address citizens’ and mayors’ needs and market failures. Making sure there is sufficient housing available requires long-term investments. In terms of competition policy\, our revision of State aid rules makes it easier for public authorities to invest in social and affordable housing.”. \nTeresa Ribera\, Executive Vice-President for Clean\, Just and Competitive Transition \n“Housing is not just a commodity. It is a fundamental right. We must mobilise every euro and do everything in our power to make sure that in Europe everyone can afford a decent place to call home”. \nDan Jørgensen\, Commissioner for Energy and Housing \nBackground  \nEurope’s cities are under pressure from a set of interlocking forces — the cost and availability of housing\, demographic change\, tourism flows\, mobility\, and the wider cost of living. Families with children are among those most affected. Rising rents and the shrinking supply of suitable\, affordable homes push young families out of city centres\, with knock-on effects for demography\, social cohesion and the long-term vitality of urban communities. Yet families are too often absent from the way urban and housing policy is framed\, designed and measured. \nA “family lens” — asking simply whether a city is a place where families with children are welcome\, supported and able to thrive — offers a unifying way to connect housing\, tourism\, mobility\, infrastructure and local economies. It reframes affordability not as a zero-sum dispute between sectors\, but as a shared question of whether European cities remain liveable for the people who sustain them. \nWhy now: the Affordable Housing Act moment \nThe European Commission’s Affordable Housing Act is a once-in- a-cycle opportunity to embed a family and demographic perspective into EU housing policy — before legislative positions solidify. A timely\, constructive conversation in the European Parliament\, convened by family organisations and urban voices rather than any single industry\, can help ensure that the family dimension is part of the debate from the outset. \nREGISTRATION HERE\n  \nDRAFT PROGRAM \n  \n16:45 – 17:00 Welcome and accreditation \n17:00 – 17:15    Opening: \n\nRaul Sanchez\, secretary general of ELFAC\, moderator\nVasile Dincu\, MEP Romania\, Co-Chair of the Intergroup on Demography (S&D) \nRomana Tomc\, MEP Slovenia\, Co-Chair of the Intergroup on Demography (PPE) \nPaolo Inselvini\, MEP Italy\, Co-Chair of the Intergroup on Demography (ECR)\nMargarita de la Pisa\, MEP Spain\, Member of the Intergroup on Demography(PIE)\n\n17:15 – 17:25    Families and housing in Europe: Difficulties and needs  \n\nRegina Maroncelli\, Vice-President of ELFAC and coordinator of the network familycities.eu\n\n17:25 – 17:35    The European Affordable Housing Plan and the families \n\n Grzegorz Gajewski\, Housing Task Force\, European Commission\n\n17:35 – 17:45   Local policies and housing  \n\nElina Treija\, Riga municipality (Latvia)\, Head of the Committee of Housing and Environment.\n\n17:45 – 17:55   Tourism\, housing and families \n\nSilvia Pastor\, Institutional Relations\, APARTUR Barcelona (Spain)\n\n17:55 – 18:05  Good practices on housing from companies  \n\nSilvia Cipelli\, Piacenza (Italy)\, European Network of Family-Friendly Companies\n\n18:05– 18:20   Interventions of Civil Society Organizations \n\nSorcha Edwards\, Secretary General of Housing Europe \nFederico Nahuel Lazzari\, Build Europe \nAttila Bohm\, Senior Policy and Advocacy Officer\,  COFACE – Families Europe\nTünde Fűrész\, Family Network Foundation (Hungary)\n\n18:20 – 18:30  Conclusions \n\nJosianne Cutajar\, Former MEP and Independent Chair of the Future of Cities Coalition\n\n 
URL:https://www.elfac.org/event/european-parliament-panel-on-housing-policies-and-families-in-europe/
LOCATION:European Parliament\, Bâtiment Paul Henri Spaak\, Rue Wiertz 60\, Brussels\, Brussels\, 1047\, Belgium
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.elfac.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/housing-policies-and-families-09-september.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Paris:20260919T210000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Paris:20260919T210000
DTSTAMP:20261108T152359
CREATED:20260831T084954Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260915T185036Z
UID:14779-1789851600-1789851600@www.elfac.org
SUMMARY:XIII European Large Families Conference and ELFAC General Assembly: Erfurt (Germany)
DESCRIPTION:Venue:\nBest Western Hotel Erfurt-Apfelstädt\nRiedweg 1 in 99192 Erfurt Apfelstädt \nGeneral Assembly of ELFAC\n\nFriday 18 September from 17:00 to 19:30\n\nXIII ELFAC Congress: Education  – Growing up. Learning. Getting ahead.\nProgram schedule for the Family Congress\, September 19\, 2026\n\n\n\n9:00\nOpening remarks and greetings\n\n\n9:25\nAward presented by ELFAC “Large Family Awards”\n\n\n10:00\nLecture and live hack “Fun and Risk on the Net” by Erwin Markowsky (8com) for adults and interested children and teenagers\n\n\n11:10 – 11:30\npause\n\n\n11:30 – 12:15\nLecture by Prof. G. Thüsing (University of Bonn\, German Ethics Council)\, followed by a Q&A session\n\n\n12:30 – 13:30\nLunch and group photo\n\n\n13:30 – 14:15\nMatthias Jung “Parenting with Dignity” (!!!HYBRID!!!)\n\n\n14:15 – 14:30\nCoffee break\n\n\n14:30 – 16:00\nA look at education in Europe with (ELFAC)\n\n\n16:00\nClosing remarks and farewell\n\n\n\nMore information: https://www.kinderreichefamilien.de/eventreader/familienkongress2026.html
URL:https://www.elfac.org/event/xiii-european-large-families-conference-and-elfac-general-assembly-erfurt-germany/
LOCATION:Best Western Hotel Erfurt-Apfelstädt\, Riedweg 1\, Erfurt Apfelstädt\, Thuringia\, 99192
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.elfac.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/13th-congress-elfac-germany.jpg
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR