Passing on Family Values to the Next Generation – conference at KINCS
The Executive Network for Family Values met for the seventh time under the theme “Passing on Family Values to the Next Generation.”
The Network, launched by the Mária Kopp Institute for Demography and Families (KINCS) in 2019, continues to bring together international experts, researchers, and policymakers to exchange best practices and strengthen family-oriented cooperation.
The hybrid conference, held on 13 November 2025, brought together almost 40 people, representing more than 30 organisations from 18 countries, stretching over 3 continents. Participants were welcomed by Tünde Fűrész, President of KINCS who emphasized that this year, the network is turning its attention to the future and to young people, who will form the families of tomorrow.
In her keynote address, Zsófia Koncz, State Secretary for Families at the Ministry of Culture and Innovation, highlighted some of the key initiatives Hungary has launched to support young people and emphasized the Hungarian Government’s ongoing commitment to strengthening families as the cornerstone of society.
A further keynote speech was delivered by Gudrun Kugler, Special Representative on Demographic Change and Security at the OSCE, who talked about the Report on Demographic Change and raised attention to postponed childbearing which can lead to unplanned childlessness with the underlying message that couples should have children earlier.
Pál Szekeres, Member of the European Parliament, greeted participants in a video message and emphasized the importance of protecting traditional family values, which have been under threat in recent years.
Paolo Inselvini, Member of the European Parliament and Co-chair of the Intergroup on Demography talked about their work and mentioned that family is our most important community and family policy is eventually an investment in human capital.
Ádám Karácsony, Member of the European Committee of the Regions reported on a demographic congress that focused on the demographic challenges and policy responses shaping Europe’s future.
The first panel discussion, “Empowering the Next Generation: Starting Well in Life,” focused on initiatives that help young people build strong family foundations. Contributions were made by Harry Benson (Marriage Foundation, UK), Alejandro Vásquez (International Federation for Family Development – IFFD), and András Pári (KINCS).
The second panel, “Safeguarding the Mental Health of the Next Generation,” addressed the importance of emotional well-being in family and educational contexts, with inputs from Maria Waszkiewicz (FAFCE), Judit Regős (Parents’ House Center), Cosmin Istoc Grosu (Pannon University), and András Székely (KINCS).
After each panel, participants shared their organisations' current projects and challenges.
In his concluding remarks, Dr. József Árpád Mészáros, Vice President of KINCS, underlined the importance of continued international cooperation in supporting families and transmitting family values to future generations.
