International Conference “Family of the Third Millennium” under the Auspices of Slovakia‘s First Lady Silvia Gašparovičová

The conference took place on the occasion of the United Nations International Day for the Family. The UN General Assembly officially proclaimed the year 2004 as the 10th Anniversary of the International Year of the Family and also called on member states to an increased focus in this year in its attention to the family and their special needs and problems. "15th May has become a family day and I look forward to this conference you organized, and thereby you confirmed that Slovakia also responds positively to that invitation of the UN and we concentrate on family issues, both in terms of science and research, creation of family policy, as well as assistance and crisis intervention to families who need it most," said Mrs. Silvia Gašparovičová.

She emphasized that the 10th anniversary of the International Year of the Family is an opportunity to celebrate what we have done during this period, but it’s also cause for serious reflection and reflection on how to join forces of national and international governmental and non-governmental institutions and organizations to improve the current situation. Family policy is complex and multi-form and requires a common approach by all relevant sectors of society and its mission should be the integration of all such key areas such as the labor market, social protection, education, housing, public services, equality of opportunities.

First Lady acknowledged that the slovak government pays attention to current challenges for family policy and sets priorities for the next period to be the main focus attention. "Systemic change in family law policy are possible only if the consent of citizens and an active civic participation in their implementation is there. Our common aim should be that the impact of reforms and transition to the new socio-economic model won´t be dangering the fulfilling of basic functions of the family in society", she said in her speech at the conclusion of the conference. Attending are not only representatives of academic and research institutions from Slovakia and f abroad, but also the creators of national and regional policies aimed at a family counseling practice, and representatives of NGOs.