People’s Summit – Towards an Anti-Poverty Strategy

On 18 July 2024, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced a historic commitment: the launch of the EU’s first-ever Anti-Poverty Strategy, set for the 2024-2029 mandate. While the strategy’s full scope is yet to be revealed, EAPN welcomes this crucial step towards eradicating poverty and social exclusion across Europe.

In addition to the Anti-Poverty Strategy, the European Commission has pledged to renew the European Pillar of Social Rights Action Plan, along with strategies for Gender Equality, LGBTIQ Equality, and Anti-Racism. New initiatives, including a Quality Jobs Roadmap, a Pact for European Social Dialogue, and a European Affordable Housing Plan, are also planned. These commitments signal a strengthened EU focus on social inclusion and equity.

For EAPN, which has advocated for an EU Anti-Poverty Strategy since 1990, this announcement marks a major milestone. However, President von der Leyen’s announcement also raises a critical question:

How can we ensure that the upcoming EU Anti-Poverty Strategy effectively eliminates poverty and social exclusion?

What to Expect at the People’s Summit

The People’s Summit is a dedicated policy platform to amplify the voices of those experiencing poverty, connect national EAPN members, engage with political stakeholders, and unite grassroots organisations from across Europe. The 2024 Summit will focus on sharing insights from people experiencing poverty (PeP), EAPN members, policymakers, and social experts on the creation of a truly impactful EU Anti-Poverty Strategy.

This summit is an opportunity to:

• Hear directly from individuals impacted by poverty and social exclusion.
• Explore policy recommendations for building an inclusive, ambitious Anti-Poverty Strategy.
• Connect with other organisations, policymakers, and advocates dedicated to social rights and poverty eradication.

This event is supported by the European Commission and the Robert Bosch Foundation.

If you are interested in attending, please send your application by the deadline. We look forward to seeing you there!