A European Year – every year since 1983
The very first European Year, in 1983, was dedicated to small business ("SMEs") and craft industry. Every year since, the EU has chosen a specific subject to encourage debate and dialogue within and between European countries.
Why European Years?
The aim is to raise awareness of certain topics, encourage debate and change attitudes. During many European years, extra funding is provided for local, national and cross-border projects that address the Year's special topic.
The European Year can also send a strong commitment and political signal from the EU institutions and member governments that the subject will be taken into consideration in future policy-making. In some cases, the European Commission may propose new legislation on the theme.
How is the theme of a European Year chosen?
It is proposed by the Commission and adopted by the European Parliament and EU member governments.
The topics are chosen several years in advance. They are always of general interest and major concern to both the EU institutions and member countries. Topics can be submitted to the Commission by member governments, civil society, businesses, or any other stakeholders.
List of European Years
- 2013 - European Year of Citizens
- 2012 - European Year for Active Ageing
- 2011 - European Year of Volunteering
- 2010 - European Year for Combating Poverty and Social Exclusion
- 2009 - European Year of Creativity and Innovation
- 2008 - European Year of Intercultural Dialogue
- 2007 - European Year of Equal Opportunities for All
- 2006 - European Year of Workers' Mobility
- 2005 - European Year of Citizenship through Education
- 2004 - European Year of Education through Sport
- 2003 - European Year of People with Disabilities
- 2001 - European Year of Languages
- 1999 - European Year of Action to Combat Violence Against Women
- 1998 - European Year of Local and Regional Democracy
- 1997 - European Year against Racism and Xenophobia
- 1996 - European Year of Lifelong Learning
- 1995 - European Year of Road Safety and Young Drivers
- 1994 - European Year of Nutrition and Health
- 1993 - European Year of the Elderly and of Solidarity between Generations
- 1992 - European Year of Safety, Hygiene and Health Protection at Work
- 1990 - European Year of Tourism
- 1989 - European Year of Information on Cancer
- 1988 - European Year of Cinema and Television
- 1987 - European Year of the Environment
- 1986 - European Year of Road Safety
- 1985 - European Year of Music
- 1984 - European Year for a People's Europe
- 1983 - European Year of SMEs and the Craft Industry