MEPs have recently submitted two written declarations linked to population ageing.

What is a written declaration?

A written declaration is a text of a maximum of 200 words relating exclusively on a matter falling within the competence of the European Union.

At least 10 Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) from at least three political groups may, as authors, submit a written declaration by presenting a text to be signed by their colleagues. They have then three months to let it signed by a majority of the MEPs. If they succeed, the written declaration is published in the minutes and forwarded to the EU Institutions named in the text, together with the names of the signatories. Declarations that, at the end of the three month period, have not been signed by at least half the MEPs lapse. Even if successful, written declarations do not bind Parliament, that is, they cannot be considered as an act of the Parliament representing its position, but only those of its authors and signatories.

Written Declaration on Alzheimer’s disease

This declaration submitted by 24 MEPs invites the European Commission and the Council to recognize Alzheimer and related diseases as a public health priority in Europe and to adopt a comprehensive strategy to address those diseases. This would include promoting the research on sustainable treatment solutions, improving the efficient provision of information and supporting carers.

Read the written declaration here.

Written Declaration on dignity at the end of life

Referring the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union (art. 35) and the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU - art. 6(a), 9 and 168) which confer competences on the Union to coordinate or complement the actions of EU member states in the protection and improvement of public health, the signatory MEPs call on the European Commission and the Council to identify best practices across the European Union with regard to the provision of end-of-life health services and to facilitate the exchange of those practices between EU countries.

Read the written declaration here.