Financial literacy and education for Europeans

At the request of the European Commission, the EESC's ECO section (Economic and Monetary Union and Economic and Social Cohesion) prepared an opinion to support efforts to improve financial literacy across the EU. Enhancing citizens’ financial skills is essential to improving financial well-being, reducing inequalities, the independence of EU citizens, and ensuring informed participation in economic life, particularly in the digital age.

Key points

In the opinion, the ECO section:

• Stresses the urgent need for targeted EU action to reduce disparities in financial literacy across Member States and population groups.
• Calls for financial education to start at an early age and be included in school curricula, while also supporting lifelong learning and skills for entrepreneurs.
• Warns against the rise in financial fraud and calls for greater public awareness, regulatory action, and investment in cybersecurity.
• Supports the creation of a European Financial Education Day to raise awareness and promote lifelong financial learning.

Additional information

EESC section: Economic and Monetary Union and Economic and Social Cohesion (ECO)

Opinion type: Exploratory

Rapporteur: Giuseppe GUERINI (Civil Society Organisations – GR III/Italy)

Adopted in section: 4/7/2025

Date of plenary adoption: 16-17/07/2025

Contact

ECO Secretariat

Email: eco@eesc.europa.eu

Administrator: Sergio LORENCIO MATALLANA