Joint Statement: Building on what works – an EU budget that delivers for people and regions
EuroHealthNet is one of over 350 signatories, including 68 EU networks and 288 national organisations from 33 countries, to support the European Social Fund and European Regional Development Fund as stand-alone funds.
As the European Commission’s EU budget proposal is debated by Member States and the European Parliament, the EUFunds4Social Coalition is concerned with the National and Regional Partnership Plans (NRPP) proposal to merge the European Social Fund (ESF), the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), and 12 shared management funds, which threatens to weaken their social and regional impact.
A strong and dedicated social budget is key to helping all communities thrive healthily and to sustain Europe’s social market economy as a global example of inclusive growth. Against this backdrop, we call for a stand-alone ESF and ERDF, each with its own dedicated regulation, budget and mission, by:
- Protecting ESF and ERDF as independent funds: Stand-alone funds ensure clarity, effective implementation, and stronger policy impact.
- Preserving distinct roles: ESF provides direct support for people through employment, education and training, skills development, social inclusion, poverty reduction and social and health services. ERDF supports regions through social infrastructure, territorial cohesion and local development.
- Guaranteeing accountability and predictability: Independent funds allow the EU to uphold its obligations under the Pillar while supporting regions in addressing inequalities and social challenges.
The EUFunds4Social Coalition brings together European social services, NGOs, public health and service providers, lifelong learning and social economy actors, workers, and social partners.
