Time for ambition: The EU needs a strong Social Fund to live up to its commitments
The European Union has begun talks on the next long-term EU Budget, which will determine how billions of Euros are invested in Europe’s future. Initial discussions suggest potential cuts to crucial social investment programmes and merging of funding mechanisms.
Europe needs a strong EU budget, alongside broader economic, social and environmental policies. A stand-alone Social Fund will be key to reduce inequalities, promote social innovation and achieve high employment levels, strengthening the Single Market and making Europe more competitive on a global scale.
EuroHealthNet joins 66 EU and international networks and over 200 organisations from 31 countries in a joint statement calling for a strong Social Fund to live up to the EU’s social commitments. With strategic use, a stronger European Social Fund can uphold human rights, strengthen social cohesion, build a better skilled workforce, improve long-term economic sustainability, and foster productivity and innovation – ensuring thriving regions and enhancing Europe’s global competitiveness.
The statement concludes that the next long-term EU Budget must include:
- A strengthened stand-alone European Social Fund, with increased funds, not less.
- Earmarked funding for training and jobs, social inclusion measures, and fighting child poverty, including addressing basic needs across key programmes.
- A strong partnership principle, ensuring cooperation between public authorities, local organisations, social partners, social economy and civil society.
- Measures that drive quality employment and social reforms to help improve welfare systems, care, training and support services, empowering those at risk of poverty and social exclusion.
Read the joint statement here.
