End Poverty: A Political choice for the future of Europe

As we approach the upcoming elections for the European Parliament, the European Anti-Poverty Network (EAPN) underscores the critical importance of addressing poverty and social exclusion within the European Union. With 95 million citizens facing daily struggles to survive, it is evident that urgent action is needed to create a fairer and more equitable society for all.

EAPN key demands for the next mandate of the European institutions:

1. 1. Adopt a comprehensive European Anti-Poverty Strategy
  2. Ensure an inclusive and intersectional Twin-Transition
  3. Guarantee the right to adequate housing
  4. Ensure the right to healthy and affordable food
  5. Improve access to healthcare and essential services

The rise of in-work poverty, the inadequacy of social protection systems, and the shifting landscape of the labor market have contributed to the alarming levels of poverty across the EU. Moreover, discriminatory practices and systemic inequalities persist, undermining the principles of equality and solidarity upon which the EU was founded.

In June 2024, citizens across the Union will have the opportunity to shape the agenda for the next term of the European Parliament. It is imperative that this election delivers representatives committed to building a stronger, fairer, and more resilient European Union.

Therefore, the European Anti-Poverty Network presents the following key demands for the next mandate of the European institutions:

Adopt a comprehensive European Anti-Poverty Strategy

The European Union faces a significant challenge in combating poverty and social exclusion, with 95 million citizens struggling to meet their basic needs every day. It is essential to recognize that poverty stems from intersecting social, political, and systemic factors. Therefore, a comprehensive European Anti-Poverty Strategy is necessary to address the multifaceted nature of poverty, which extends beyond economic factors to encompass social, political, and systemic issues. We need a Europe and policies that prioritise social policy initiatives and champion the eradication of poverty to create a more inclusive society where everyone’s rights are recognised and upheld. Investing in a decent minimum income means investing in the economy.

Ensure an inclusive and intersectional Twin-Transition

The transition to a green and digital economy presents both opportunities and challenges for the European Union. However, current policy approaches often overlook social considerations, leading to the marginalisation of vulnerable populations. As a result, we see record levels of employment alongside persistent in-work poverty and rising inequalities across Europe. Shockingly, 1 in 5 Europeans are at risk of poverty or social exclusion, with significant proportions facing energy poverty and financial distress.* Therefore, to ensure an inclusive transition that leaves no one behind, it is essential to integrate social policies into climate and digital initiatives that goes beyond mere job creation and skills development. It requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the structural and systemic roots of social exclusion. This includes, for instance, implementing fiscal and economic measures such as green and social investments plans, wealth taxation and redistribution, shifting subsidies away from fossil industries, introducing a financial transaction tax and taxing windfall profits. Prioritizing these measures can create a transition that not only promotes economic growth but also fosters social equity and environmental sustainability, leaving no one behind in the process.

Guarantee the right to adequate housing

Access to adequate and affordable housing is a fundamental human right that is essential for individuals’ well-being and social inclusion. However, housing insecurity and homelessness persist across the EU, disproportionately impacting vulnerable and marginalized communities. In recent years, we have seen a troubling rise in housing costs in our cities, driven by the accumulation of real estate revenues. This trend has hit groups such as women, low-income individuals, religious and ethnic minorities, persons with disabilities, migrants, and refugees the hardest. Discrimination in housing access forces many from these communities into inadequate living conditions, including informal settlements, substandard housing, or precarious arrangements due to financial constraints. These challenges are compounded by a lack of essential services like water, sanitation, and electricity, further deepening their vulnerability. To tackle this issue head-on, the EU must establish a dedicated “European fund for investment in affordable, decent, and suitable housing.” This fund should prioritize the creation and maintenance of low-cost housing tailored to the diverse needs of different populations. EAPN calls on the EU and member states to align housing policies with the objectives of the Green Deal and the European Pillar of Social Rights, to effectively combat housing inequality and foster greater social inclusion.

Ensure the right to healthy and affordable food

Food poverty presents an urgent challenge in Europe, exacerbated by rising food and energy costs. This has triggered a cost-of-living crisis, disproportionately affecting the most economically vulnerable groups. Many families find it increasingly difficult to afford nutritious meals, resulting in adverse effects on their health and overall well-being. For example, parents are grappling with providing adequate nourishment for their children, students are forced to prioritize between heating their homes and securing enough food, and the elderly are confronted with the difficult choice between essential medications and nutritious meals. Existing support systems like pensions, welfare schemes, and wages have failed to keep pace with the steep rise in food prices, exacerbating the physical and mental health challenges faced by EU citizens. These multifaceted negative consequences underscore the critical need to address the economic decisions at the heart of European food production and health services. To combat food poverty effectively, it is imperative to address its root causes and bolster community food resilience. This involves the establishment of accessible, sustainable, and health-focused food systems that prioritize both public health and long-term food security. Moreover, the EU must confront the resistance from influential vested interests to safeguard public health, invest in social welfare policies and sustainable food production and security. Europe needs to promote affordable and nutritious food for all to confront the inherent inequalities within the current food system and ensure universal access to essential nutrition and adequate health support for everyone.

Improve access to healthcare and essential services:

Access to healthcare and essential services is not just a matter of convenience; it’s a fundamental aspect of social inclusion and well-being. The principle 20 of the European Pillar of Social Rights underscores this by emphasizing everyone’s right to access essential services of good quality. These encompass a wide range of services, from healthcare to energy, digital, and transport, fulfilling basic human needs and fostering social inclusion, especially for disadvantaged groups.

However, affordability and accessibility barriers often hinder individuals, particularly those at risk of poverty or social exclusion, from accessing these vital services. This affordability challenge disproportionately affects the most vulnerable, who may rely on income support or be forced to forego essential services due to financial constraints. As we approach the EU elections, it’s crucial for the EU to implement measures ensuring universal access to quality healthcare and essential services, irrespective of socio-economic status or geographical location. Prioritizing access to these services is paramount in enabling all individuals to thrive and fully participate in society.