This week, we mark the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, a moment to recognise the realities faced by millions and to reaffirm our commitment to systemic change. Across Europe, EAPN’s national members are organising events, campaigns and activities to raise awareness, share lived experiences and push for stronger anti-poverty policies. From public actions and local debates to creative initiatives and advocacy efforts, their work shines a spotlight on poverty as a structural issue that demands collective solutions.
You can discover some of these activities here and join us in amplifying their voices and impact.
Ireland
Event: In Conversation with Richard Wilkinson & Kate Pickett (authors of The Spirit Level)
The organisation stated that its meeting next week, “In Conversation with Richard Wilkinson & Kate Pickett”, authors of the International Bestseller “The Spirit Level -why equality is better for everyone” is of even more relevance now and would be seriously beneficial to anyone who is concerned at the direction of the 2026 national Budget and how an alternative approach would work.
- Date/Time: 16 October 2025, 19:00
- Location: The New Theatre, Temple Bar, Dublin (in-person only)
Portugal
EAPN Portugal is coordinating 256 initiatives nationwide to raise awareness, centre lived experience and mobilise communities. Check them all out here. Highlights include:
XVII National Forum to Combat Poverty and Social Exclusion – “The fight against poverty in Portugal: a unceasing constitutional and social commitment!”
During the opening session at the Portuguese Parliament, the role of the State and the Constitution in combating poverty will be highlighted. On the second day, experts, decision-makers and citizens will debate what works and what fails in public policies.
Date: 14 and 15 October, Lisbon
Location: 4th, Sala do Senado, National Parliament; 15th, Institute of Social Security
Journalism Award ‘Analysing Poverty in the Media’
A total of 34 newspaper articles (18 national and 16 regional) were submitted to the awards. They were selected and analysed by people who live or have lived in poverty and/or social exclusion – the Local Citizens’ Councils of EAPN Portugal.
Date: 14th october
Location: Hotel 3K Barcelona, Lisbon
National campaign “Poverty from A to Z”
The objective is to demystify what it means to live in poverty and show that this reality may be closer to all of us than we imagine.
The campaign features 10 fundamental dimensions of poverty, explained in a clear and accessible way.
Czech Republic
Poverty watch launch:
The launch includes a press conference followed by three panels on housing, minimum income and social health. Panels will include ministry representatives, NGOs, municipalities and people with direct experience of poverty.
Date/time: 20 October 2025, 11:00–14:30
Location: Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs
Lithuania
Poverty Watch Launch:
EAPN Lithuania is planning their traditional yearly presentation of Poverty Watch 2025, presented via ZOOM (In Lithuanian Language), follow up their incredible agenda.
Date/time: 16th October, 10:00-12:00
Location: Webinar
