The Cyprus Third Age Observatory Participates in AGE Platform Europe AGM & Conference in Leuven

The Cyprus Third Age Observatory proudly announces the active participation of its President, Mr Demos Antoniou, in the Annual General Assembly and Annual Conference of AGE Platform Europe, held from 16 to 18 June 2025 in Leuven, Belgium.

This year’s landmark event, titled “Intergenerational Solidarity in Europe”, brought together EU policymakers, civil society leaders, and experts in ageing policy for a dynamic and forward-looking hybrid dialogue.

During the AGM, delegates from across the continent reviewed strategic priorities for 2025, with a special emphasis on the development of a new EU Strategy on Intergenerational Fairness, currently spearheaded by Commissioner Glenn Micallef. This ambitious strategy aims to ensure that all EU policies are evaluated in light of their long-term impacts on both present and future generations.

The accompanying Annual Conference, organised as a Multistakeholder Dialogue, explored urgent themes such as demographic change, labour market dynamics, digital inclusion, health and long-term care systems, housing, mobility, and climate resilience. A common thread running through all sessions was the call for stronger cross-generational cooperation to build a more equitable and sustainable Europe.

Mr Antoniou made a compelling intervention during the policy discussions, stressing the urgent need to confront and prevent older people abuse, a growing yet often invisible problem across Europe. He urged policymakers and stakeholders to prioritise measures that protect victims, support whistleblowers, and ensure that “crimes committed behind closed doors do not remain in the shadows.”

With Cyprus set to hold the Presidency of the Council of the European Union in 2026, Mr Antoniou used the opportunity to highlight the importance of continuity and coherence in European ageing policy. He engaged in meaningful bilateral exchanges with representatives from other AGE member organisations, laying the groundwork for future joint initiatives and closer alignment between national and European priorities in the field of ageing and intergenerational equity.

“Cyprus is deeply invested in forging an inclusive, supportive Europe—one that honours all generations through solidarity,” said Mr Demos Antoniou, President of the Cyprus Third Age Observatory. “I am honoured to represent, together with PASYDY, the Cypriot civil society at the heart of this vital conversation. Fostering strong European and national partnerships in ageing policy is not an option, it is our obligation.”