The creation of an atmosphere of solidarity and trust in society is the basis for solving the problem of poverty and social exclusion in Croatia and a condition for achieving social standards and successful integration with the European Union, reads the declaration.
The conference, held on 14 and 15 October, marks the completion of a project conducted by Caritas Croatia and the Roman Catholic Church's Centre for the Promotion of the Social Doctrine "Monitoring of Poverty in Croatia".
The event was attended by some 100 participants who held lectures based on empirical research and theoretical consideration.
According to empirical research, there is a high level of personal solidarity and a low level of social solidarity in Croatia.
The declaration called on the faithful, especially members of the Catholic Church, to pay more attention to the development of social spirituality.
Civil society is poorly developed in the social welfare area, therefore the civil sector should pay more attention to real problems, such as unemployment, living on loans, and solidarity with vulnerable groups.
Research shows that society does not attach much value to education, especially self-education.
"The reform of the welfare state must not threaten the basic social standards and it must include domestic experts," reads the declaration.