The eradication of poverty is a political choice.
In response to the European Commission’s announcement of the first-evet EU Anti-Poverty Strategy, due for early 2026, a diverse group of civil society organisations has come together to demand for ambition, coherence and action.
The Ad Hoc Coalition on the EU Anti-Poverty Strategy brings together EU-level organisations working across different policy areas related to the fight against poverty to coordinate advocacy and push for a strong and comprehensive EU Anti-Poverty Strategy.
What we fight for
While we welcomed the announcement of the upcoming EU Anti-Poverty Strategy, the broader European context demands urgent action, especially increasing constraints on welfare systems and the weaponisation of marginalised groups fuelled by the rise of the far-right. Thus, we call on European leaders to deliver a strategy that goes beyond empty words.
Our coalition advocates for a robust and comprehensive EU Anti-Poverty Strategy working towards alleviation, prevention and eradication of poverty.
To that end, we believe that the fight against poverty must be a top priority of the European Union. The current concerns of policy makers with security, defense, and competitiveness must not come at the cost of equitable and sustainable social welfare and social rights.
Why it matters
The formation of this coalition responds to two key needs:
- To present a unified civil society front, representing the interests of people across Europe.
- To address the multidimensional nature of poverty with coherent, intersectional solutions.
Poverty is a violation of human rights and a threat to the founding principles of the European Union: democracy, fundamental rights, equality, non-discrimination, inclusion, human dignity and freedom. Despite affecting over 95 million people in the EU, poverty continues to be addressed in silos, undermining the efficiency of the tools and measures.
To eradicate poverty, the EU must recognise and respond to its multiple, interconnected dimensions: income, housing, education, healthcare, essential services, discrimination, age, mental health, environment and participation in society. These dimensions intersect with characteristics such as race, migration status, family situation, disabilities, gender, etc. and reinforce structural exclusion.
That is why this coalition matters. It brings together diverse civil society organisations with expertise across sectors to advocate for a comprehensive, rights-based and coordinated EU Anti-Poverty Strategy. It is essential to keep the eradication of poverty at the centre of the European political agenda!
Our Work
We are actively engaging with EU institutions, shaping policies and amplifying the voices of those most affected by poverty across Europe. But this is a collective struggle, one that requires broad awareness, solidarity and participation beyond the walls of Brussels.
Everyone can support this movement. By following our work, sharing our messages and holding decision-makers accountable, you can contribute to a future where a dignified life is a reality across Europe.
Connect with us on social media to stay informed and join the ongoing conversation that demands a bold, coherent and rights-based EU Anti-Poverty Strategy.
List of Organisations:
AGE Platform Europe
ATD Fourth World
Caritas Europa
COFACE Families Europe
Emmaus Europe
ENAR
European Anti-Poverty Network
Eurochild
Eurodiaconia
European Roma Grassroots Organisations (ERGO) Network
Equinox Initiative for Social Justice
FEANTSA
PICUM
Save The Children
SMEs-Europa
Social Platform
