Strengthening Families Across Borders: A Day of Dialogue and Recognition in Brussels

On 13 May, the European Union & International Affairs Office of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints hosted the European Family Policy Conference and European Family Values Award in Brussels, Belgium. Policymakers, academics, journalists, religious leaders, and advocates gathered from across Europe and North America to engage in meaningful discussions about family and to recognize exceptional leadership in strengthening the family as the fundamental unit of society.

The events are part of “Strengthening Families,” an initiative in partnership with Sutherland Institute, a Utah-based think tank. This year’s gathering also marked the 30th anniversary of The Family: A Proclamation to the World, a doctrinal statement issued by the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints affirming the central role of the family in God’s plan.

The day began with five dynamic sessions as part of the European Family Policy Conference. Each session offered research, policy experience, and lived insight into the challenges and opportunities facing families today. Ms. Antonella Sberna, Vice President of the European Parliament responsible for the Dialogue Article 17 with churches and non-confessional organizations, opened the event. In her video message, she called for a “European Family Deal” and urged policymakers to place the family at the heart of Europe’s future, highlighting its vital role in social cohesion and civic life. She stated that “The family is not a theoretical idea, nor should it ever be seen that way, but a real lived reality.”

The first session explored the theme of family structure and child well-being. Dr. Vincenzo Bassi, president of FAFCE, explained that historically “the family introduced civilization to humankind” and that marriage was the first covenant that put the interests of another person above their own. Professor Jenet Erickson, Family Fellow at Wheatley Institute of BYU, emphasized the importance of the two-parent home, calling it “the dividing factor between classes.” She said research shows that children in these settings are the truly privileged ones. Professor Matteo Rizzolli, Professor of Economic Policy at LUMSA University in Rome, added, “It’s not about making children cheaper, but families more valuable,” suggesting that putting the value of families at the center is as important as financial incentives.

The second session highlighted the need for deeper reflection in family policy. José Luis Bazan of COMECE offered an overview of the Catholic resources available to families and young people. Rick Larsen, president and CEO of Sutherland Institute said, “We forget that it’s the family that contributes to a functioning society.” Doug Wilks, executive editor of Deseret News, added a hopeful perspective: “The fertility crisis is far greater than the climate crisis. But there is opportunity in this. There are great things ahead.” He noted that positive opportunity lies in making the data and message relevant to the media—helping journalists connect the dots between demographic realities and the future of society. “If we make the facts meaningful to reporters, they will make them meaningful to the public,” he said.

The third session brought forward young voices from research and advocacy. Maja Jesmanowicz from Poland and project manager of European Large Families Confederation in Spain asserted that “Young people still want to have children—they want it by heart, but not by head,” pointing out that fear and uncertainties play a big part in the decision-making process. Brigham Young University’s student researcher Emma Howlett emphasized the power of example: “We value family life so much that we’re afraid to enter it unless it’s perfect.” She mentioned that young people are generally wary of institutions and look for authenticity and trustworthiness in their sources.

The fourth session focused on legislative leadership. Utah State Senator Todd Weiler and Representative Candice Pierucci shared family-centered initiatives in education, tax policy, and
digital protections for children. Lisa Perkins, member of the Danish Parliament, offered a reflection on family policy systems: “We’ve created a welfare state that’s become so complex it now competes with families.” Marco La Marca, member of the Cabinet of Dubravka Šuica, European Commissioner for the Mediterranean, underlined the economic value of stay-at-home-moms: “We need to review the way we look at GDP figures because they do not take their work into account.”

The conference concluded with a plenary session that synthesized key ideas. Speakers agreed on the need for a long-term, principle-driven approach. “Perhaps we are too focused on the details,” Matteo Rizzolli remarked. “What is our grand plan?” In the context of family values in society.

Closing the conference, Francesco Di Lillo, director of the EU & International Affairs Office, shared how any individual has the power to effect change within his or her own sphere of influence. Referencing the Family Proclamation, he invited “responsible citizens and officers of government everywhere to promote those measures designed to maintain and strengthen the family as the fundamental unit of society.”

Following the richly thought-provoking conference, guests gathered for the evening dinner program and the presentation of the 2025 European Family Values Award.

Di Lillo welcomed guests and introduced the award. “Families, like stained glass windows, are strengthened through heat and pressure,” he said. “When nurtured, they reflect something enduring, beautiful, and vital to the future of our societies.”

The award was created to recognize European individuals and institutions who promote the dignity of family life in meaningful and courageous ways. The 2025 recipient was Merete Riisager, former Danish Minister of Children and Education. A lifelong advocate for parental rights and educational freedom, Riisager’s influence spans national and European platforms. Her work has shaped legislation, public dialogue, and intellectual discourse.

In her acceptance remarks, Riisager shared the story of her grandparents, who built both a home and a business in postwar Denmark. She spoke of a family culture rooted in service, humility, and joy. “They taught us that life can offer you a pleasant or rough start, but what you make of it is your own responsibility,” she said. “We’re not brought into this life to please the state or a boss at work. We’re here to honor life itself and fulfill our role in it as best we can.”

Though surprised to be recognized, Riisager said the award affirmed a quiet truth about her work: “I never saw myself as someone fighting for the family, but looking back, I can see that’s exactly what I’ve done.”

A soul-stirring musical interlude was performed by Aaron McInnis (tenor) and Marie Datcharry (piano), echoing a quote from President David O. McKay on the printed program: “Music is truly the universal language, and when it is excellently expressed, how deeply it moves our souls.”

As the evening closed, guests expressed appreciation for the opportunity to reflect, connect, and recommit to the shared responsibility of strengthening families. The conference and award affirmed a clear theme from The Family Proclamation: that family is central to the Creator’s plan for the eternal destiny of His children.