Launching on 13 and 14 December 2004 in Sofia (Bulgaria)

The Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe has proclaimed 2005 European Year of Citizenship
through Education. In organising this Year, the Council of Europe wishes to highlight how crucial
education is to the development of citizenship and the quality of participation in a democratic society. Recent
elections in most European countries show a worrying deficit of interest and participation in political and
public life, notably among the young generation. The organisation of such a Year can play an important
role in making young people aware of the need to get involved in matters that concern everyday life. It can
help develop critical thinking and debate with tolerance and rationality. The Committee of Ministers has
already shown its commitment to this issue by adopting Recommendation (2002)12 to member states on
education for democratic citizenship (EDC). The aims of the Year will be to encourage member states to
implement this Recommendation by setting up EDC policies and practices in their educational programmes
and to promote initiatives and partnerships within and among member states.

I. HISTORY

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II. OBJECTIVES OF THE YEAR

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III. TARGET GROUPS

VI. PARTNERS
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IV. KEY ISSUES TO BE TAKEN

INTO ACCOUNT DURING THE
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V. CONTRI BUTION OF THE

COUNCIL OF EUROPE TO THE
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Contact:
Division for Education for Democratic Citizenship and Human Rights Education
Directorate General IV, Council of Europe F 67075 Strasbourg
Fax: + 33 (0) 3 88 41 27 06 E-mail: EDC@coe.int Website: http://www.coe.int/edc