President of the European network of families based in Italy (Elfac), Maria Regina Maronchelli, said that a decrease in the birth rate in Europe reached a threatening level, and emphasized that wide families can play a key role in overcoming the demographic crisis. She said this, speaking at the International Family Forum, which takes place in Istanbul under the motto “Preservation and strengthening of a family in a globalizing world.”
According to her, large families often are left without social support and even subjected to stigmatization, although they can become an important element of the future society. Maronchelli emphasized that Elfac combines family associations from 22 European countries, and reminded that the share of families with three or more children in Europe is only about 3%.
“In many European cities, there is a demographic decline, especially in rural areas. This is a serious challenge for the future continent,” said the head of Elfac.
Türkiye has not yet encountered a deep demographic problem
Maronchelli noted that in Turkey there is not yet the same deep demographic problem as in Europe, but warned that in the future the country could face similar difficulties.
“If we create a society where families receive support, and the birth of children is encouraged, this unfavorable trend can be changed,” she stressed.
The head of Elfac also spoke about the network of “family oriented municipalities” they created, which has already included 160 cities from 10 countries. The initiative is aimed at developing a policy focused on the needs of families at the level of local self -government.
According to her, such measures strengthen social capital and prevent the outflow of youth.
Family oriented cities contribute to the growth of the economy
MARONCHELLIA emphasized that family -oriented urban planning and policy in the fields of transport, health and education not only improve the quality of life, but also contribute to economic growth.
“where there are families and children, the economy is developing,” she said. – “Even inexpensive solutions such as special parking lots for mothers or free summer open -air movie show, contribute to strengthening a sense of community and cohesion.”
She emphasized that for the success of such initiatives, active participation and complete commitment from the local authorities are necessary. In her opinion, the mayor and the municipal council should have a clear family oriented vision, and the family themselves – to be involved in the decision -making process.
also Monchelli reported plans to create a network of “family -oriented companies”, which should be the following step in attracting a private sector to solving demographic problems.
“Create conditions in which young people will want to live and work, can only with the joint work of business and local government,” she concluded.