Who we are

What is EAPN?

Since 1990, the European Anti Poverty Network (EAPN) has been an independent network of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and groups involved in the fight against poverty and social exclusion in the Member States of the European Union.


Our network


At present, EAPN is a network of:

The membership of EAPN is involved in a variety of activities aimed at combating poverty and social exclusion including, education and training activities, service provision and activities aimed at the participation and empowerment of people experiencing poverty and social exclusion. 

Together the membership of EAPN aims to put the fight against poverty high on the agenda of the EU and to ensure cooperation at EU level aimed at the eradication of poverty and social exclusion.

EAPN has consultative status with the Council of Europe, and is a founding member of the Platform of European Social NGOs.

 

Our mission


In order to achieve our ambitions, we have set ourselves the following mission:

  • To promote and enhance the effectiveness of actions to eradicate poverty and prevent social exclusion;
  • To raise awareness around poverty and social exclusion
  • To empower the people living in poverty and social exclusion
  • To lobby for and with people and groups facing poverty and social exclusion. EAPN includes the objectives of gender equality and non discrimination in all its areas of work.

EAPN includes the objectives of gender equality and non discrimination in all its areas of work.

 

Our activities


Advocacy and campaigning


EAPN is one of the main partners of the European institutions on the European strategy to combat social exclusion.

It lobbies for the integration of the fight against poverty and social exclusion into all Community policies, ranging from Structural Funds and employment policies through to economic and monetary policies (See “What we do”).

EAPN builds alliances with relevant actors to create a stronger voice in favour of social inclusion.


Analysis


EAPN keeps under close review Community policies and programmes likely to impact on groups facing poverty and social exclusion.

We also develop links with the research sector in order to enhance knowledge of poverty and social exclusion within the EU.

EAPN develops proposals to influence the Community institutions.


Information


The web site www.eapn.org is the reference portal on poverty and social exclusion in Europe.

A magazine “Network News” and a bimonthly newsletter “EAPN Flash” provide information on EAPN and EU policy/events and on Community programmes and initiatives of interest to EAPN members.

We also produce a range of materials on poverty, social inclusion, employment, social protection, the Structural Funds, the future of Europe, etc.


Exchange


EAPN sets up task forces and hosts transnational seminars.

It is also a forum for exchange of information on national policies for social inclusion. It facilitates partnership building among its members and beyond, and liaises with NGOs in the candidate countries.


Training


EAPN provides training for its members on networking and European policies.


 

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