EU Parliament Calls for Increased Funding to Fight Poverty & Social Exclusion

European Parliament members are calling for increased financial support and coordinated efforts to combat poverty and social exclusion across the European Union. This push comes as concerns grow over the number of individuals at risk, particularly children, and the need for a more robust and unified approach to address these challenges.

Addressing Poverty as a Human Dignity Issue

Deputies have stated that poverty constitutes a violation of human dignity. They are urging the European Commission to formally recognize this principle in its upcoming anti-poverty strategy and to work towards eradicating poverty by 2035. A recent report, approved by a significant majority – 385 in favor, 141 against, and 53 abstentions – emphasizes the necessity of adequate budgetary resources and improved coordination between the EU and its member states.

Did You Know? In 2024, 93.3 million people in the EU were at risk of poverty or social exclusion, including 20 million children – representing one-quarter of all children in the EU.

Focus on Child Poverty

With the number of children at risk of poverty increasing, Parliament is requesting greater support for EU countries in implementing the European Child Guarantee. This initiative aims to ensure all children in need have access to free healthcare, education, care, and adequate nutrition. Deputies are proposing a dedicated budget of at least €20 billion for the European Child Guarantee. They suggest that at least 5% of the European Social Fund+ resources should be allocated to projects specifically targeting child poverty, with a minimum of 10% directed towards countries with higher-than-average rates of child poverty and social exclusion.

Combating Poverty Through Employment

Full employment and social protection are being positioned as standard objectives for economic and social policy. Deputies are advocating for policies that protect labour rights and ensure fair wages, including equal pay for equal work. To address the issue of working poverty, they are calling for improved access to childcare services and tailored career guidance.

Universal Access to Public Services

The European Commission and member states are urged to increase public investment in areas providing universal access to housing, food, water, sanitation, energy, and transportation. This increased investment, It’s believed, could help break the cycle of intergenerational poverty and promote social inclusion.

Expert Insight: The Parliament’s call for a coordinated strategy and increased funding signals a growing recognition that poverty is a systemic issue requiring a multi-faceted response. The emphasis on both economic opportunities, like employment, and social safety nets, like access to public services, reflects a comprehensive approach to tackling the problem.

Parliament is also seeking an action plan to end homelessness across the EU by 2030, with specific measures targeting children and families, unemployed workers, and women. Finally, the report calls for measures to promote the political participation of people experiencing poverty, ensuring their involvement in decision-making processes and the implementation and evaluation of policies that affect them.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the European Child Guarantee?

The European Child Guarantee aims to ensure that all children in need have access to free healthcare, education, care, and adequate nutrition.

What is the proposed timeline for eradicating poverty?

Deputies are urging the European Commission to work towards eradicating poverty by 2035.

How much funding is being proposed for the European Child Guarantee?

Deputies are proposing a dedicated budget of at least €20 billion for the European Child Guarantee.

As the European Commission prepares its first-ever anti-poverty strategy, expected in 2026, will member states prioritize the necessary budgetary allocations and coordinated efforts to meet the ambitious goals set forth by the Parliament?