EPR joins 45 other signatories in saying: A stronger Europe needs a stronger ESF+!

EPR joins 45 other signatories in saying: A stronger Europe needs a stronger ESF+!

Europe is transforming: economically, digitally, in terms of sustainability. These changes necessitate a social transformation to make the most of the evolving landscape, whilst leaving no one behind. To achieve this, Europe must reduce inequalities, promote social progress and achieve high quality employment levels, thereby strengthening the Single Market and improving Europe’s economy. These are also foundational elements to facilitate restoring trust in our political systems and our social market economy.

The European Union’s Multi-annual Financial Framework (MFF) for 2027 onwards will be a critical instrument to create a Europe that is fit-for-purpose, competitive and capable of achieving the 3 targets set-out in the European Pillar of Social Rights Action Plan: on employment, training and lifting at least 15 million people, of which 5 million children, out of poverty by 2030. Like the European Parliament and others, we see the European Social Fund + and Cohesion policy more generally as essential tools to achieve this.

The next MFF will of course need to improve, be adapted to the evolving context and new priorities. Improving a framework is also to recognise what has worked well with its predecessors. Since its establishment in 1957 with the Treaty of Rome, the European Social Fund (ESF) has been a cornerstone of EU investment, effectively addressing territorial disparities, targeting local needs, and supporting innovation and reforms in partnership with local stakeholders, social partners, civil society and the social economy.

The ESF has driven advancements in employment, training, and social support services, creating opportunities for millions of Europe’s most excluded individuals. As highlighted in the Joint Statement “Time for Ambition”, we urge the EU Commission to build on those advancements and strengthen, rather than weaken or merge, the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+).

The statement has been signed by 46 organisations and networks, including EPR, the European Association of Service providers for Persons with Disabilities (EASPD), the European Disability Forum (EDF) and Social Services Europe.

Read the full statement here.