The new Action Plan for the European Pillar of Social Rights

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What is the European Pillar of Social Rights all about?

Next year, the European Pillar of Social Rights (EPSR) will celebrate its 10th anniversary. Its 20 principles set a common framework for better living and working conditions across the EU, covering equal opportunities, fair working conditions and social protection. Delivering on the EPSR is not simply an opportunity: it is a commitment Europe has already made and an essential component of the European model.

What is being debated at EU level and why?

In July 2026, the European Commission adopted a Communication on the European Pillar of Social Rights, renewing its commitment to Social Europe ahead of the Pillar's 10th anniversary. This Communication reviews progress in strengthening social rights across the EU. It also sets out priorities for further action where more needs to be done.  

The debate on a new action plan for the EPSR comes at a time when competitiveness, security and defence have moved to the centre of the European agenda, but Europe must broaden its understanding of competitiveness. It cannot be measured only in economic terms: it must also be social, inclusive and resilient.

This is not only a social imperative, but an economic one. A model that fails to reduce inequalities and enable all people to participate in the economy will ultimately undermine productivity, reduce labour-market participation, increase social costs and weaken Europe’s long-term growth potential.

The debate is also linked to the EU's next Multiannual Financial Framework for 2028-2034 (MFF). Social commitments cannot remain only on paper: they need adequate resources. The European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) must remain a strong instrument for employment, skills, social inclusion and those furthest from the labour market.

What do civil society organisations say?

Civil society organisations support strong implementation of the EPSR, but call for ambition, adequate financing and participation in the design and monitoring of policies. This is particularly important for organisations representing people facing greater barriers, including persons with disabilities.

The social economy also has a key role. Cooperatives, mutual societies, foundations, associations and social enterprises combine economic activity with social objectives and contribute to employment, inclusion, cohesion and resilience.

What is the EESC’s position?

The EESC has consistently called for a stronger social dimension in EU policymaking, measurable targets, adequate funding, quality employment, inclusive labour markets and involvement of civil society and social partners. It has also defended the ESF+ as a distinct and resourced instrument.

The EESC is currently preparing an opinion (SOC/885) on the Communication on the European Pilar of Social Rights, to be adopted in March 2027. Previous relevant opinions include:

  • SOC/822 New Action Plan on the implementation of the European Pillar of Social Rights (2025);
  • EESC resolution 'European Civil Society Working in partnership for our Sustainable Future', as a contribution to the Porto Social Summit during the Portuguese Presidency of the Council of the EU (2021); 
  • SOC/679 Action plan on the implementation of the European Pillar of Social Rights (2021).

Are there any position papers from stakeholders?

The Social Platform, the European Anti-Poverty Network, Social Economy Europe and the European Disability Forum have published contributions stressing the need for stronger implementation, social investment, adequate EU funding and greater involvement of organised civil society. Contributions include:

What’s next?

The next steps will be decisive: implementation of the renewed social agenda, forthcoming initiatives on quality jobs and poverty, and negotiations on the 2028-2034 MFF.

Europe must adapt to a new geopolitical, economic and technological reality, but without losing its essence. A Europe that becomes more competitive but less cohesive, more powerful but more unequal, or economically stronger while socially and democratically more fragile would ultimately weaken the foundations of its own prosperity.

Lourdes MÁRQUEZ DE LA CALLEJALourdes MÁRQUEZ DE LA CALLEJA (Spain)

Member, EESC Civil Society Organisations' Group

Spokesperson, EESC Social Economy Category

Member of the Board of Directors, Spanish Social Economy Business Confederation (CEPES)

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