This analysis of the 2023 Spring Package raised concerns about the resurgence of austerity measures, skyrocketing energy poverty rates, and the rising burden of inflation, all of which disproportionately affect vulnerable households. Although public policies to restrain inflationary pressure start showing results. The EU’s current approach must be questioned, as it appears to prioritise profit-driven strategies over the well-being of its people and planet.
It is evident from the 2023 Spring Package that despite the semi-recent 2008 financial crisis, the EU has still failed to learn its lessons and to put forward comprehensive social investment/social rights strategies to secure social welfare. The European Semester continues to prioritise profits over societal well-being and in particular those living in poverty. This year, we focus on three main topics: energy poverty, rising inflation and the urge for fiscal space for social and green investment.
EAPN highlights the need for a comprehensive, rights-based, person-centred anti-poverty strategy that tackles energy poverty, promotes equitable access to essential services, and recalibrates fiscal priorities in favour of social welfare and green initiatives, amongst others. It is time that EU Member States learn from the past, and focus on anti-cyclical measures that prioritise investment in recovery, fiscal justice, and the protection of social rights.
