Forum President's Message

Greetings from the President

The city of Bologna will be hosting the 56^th Europa Forum of European Lions from 4^th – 6^th November 2010.

We European Lions are the proponents of an advanced, open, mature Lionism, hardworking and practical, imbued with our culture and a sense of responsibility. We have long been an association devoted to service, a movement of people with a common approach. We have long gone beyond mere good intentions, putting our values into practice.

This Forum’s general theme – “Lions: leaders for Humanitarian and European Citizenship” – will allow us all to underline yet again that European Lions can and must be united and coordinated in their service activity and in their civil, social, cultural, political, ethical and humanitarian commitment.

At this particular time so fraught with far-reaching, complex social and political problems, we are resolved to continue to express values, virtues and a sense of active, hands-on solidarity before social change. Our “political” role must be that of every citizen with a responsible, voluntary commitment to the issues facing our communities. Our engagement in “politics” must be an awareness of community problems and concrete implementation of the values of solidarity.

The Bologna Forum will be an opportunity to debate and listen to differing opinions against a backdrop of fraternal tolerance and determination to seek common, shared outcomes.

The city of Bologna will welcome you with its famous hospitality. Bologna’s age-old history and monuments are flanked by modern, efficient convention facilities easily reached by a well-integrated network linking air, motor and railway transport from all major European cities.

We look forward to welcoming you in large numbers as messengers of peace and brotherhood among peoples coming together to work for the good of humanity.