This year presentations dealt with accompaniment to Roma families and children; integration of less able and chronically ill persons; health services for migrants; and social activities centres for marginalised persons. This type of services operated by Caritas organisations plays a very important social role especially in a time of economic crisis.

“The economic and financial crisis has showed that the globalisation is not a legend but a concrete reality experienced by everyone” said Hellmut Puschmann, President of the diocesan Caritas of Dresden-Meissen. “A strengthened networking among European actors involved in social work is crucial in order to adequately respond to related challenges”, he added.  

Indeed, in line with the final declaration adopted by participants, the contribution of European citizens and of civil society organisations must be integrated into building Europe’s future. In particular, views and experiences from the local sphere are relevant for the planning and organisation of social work at all levels. In view of this purpose, acknowledgement of offered competences and long-term support are important conditions.

The third Caritas Europa Trans-regional Conference on Social Inclusion will be held in autumn 2010 in Trieste (Italy) with diocesan organisations from Italy, Austria, Slovenia and Croatia taking up responsibility for the preparation.