Whilst supporting the development of multidimensional approaches, EAPN aims to promote mutual learning between national members and to develop proposals for better policy approaches and measures on specific policy areas through the Open Method of Coordination. This means participating actively in the Commission’s organised “Peer Reviews” but also promoting mutual exchange between members on key themes. In 2007 our focus was on:
Child Poverty
EAPN has been concerned to challenge “narrow approaches” to child poverty which appear to “blame parents” and put too much emphasis on getting parents (mainly women) into any full-time work, regardless of the quality of the job or the impact on the family..
EAPN has pressed for integrated approaches which embed a focus on children within universal, preventative approaches promoting family welfare and support within a rights-based approach.
The Commission has promised adequate follow up to the thematic year, and EAPN will be monitoring the National Strategic Reports ( 2008-10) to appraise the results.
EAPN is particularly concerned to see progress on – child poverty targets, child development and family support, as well as adequate family income.
See:
- EAPN “Light Year: Report – section on child poverty
- EAPN Response to Guidance for the Strategic Reports 2008-11 (January 2008)
- A Stronger OMC, but not enough to make the difference! EAPN Response and Proposals for Reinforcing the OMC (September 2008)
Active Inclusion
Whilst welcoming the Commission’s proposal of an integrated strategy which promotes positive activation, access to adequate income and services, EAPN is concerned that “Active Inclusion’ should not be allowed to replace social inclusion.
It should be promoted though genuinely integrated strategies which promote positive incentives to inclusion not only through work, tackle the real barriers to sustainable decent work for all groups, and ensure effective implementation and monitoring through the OMC.
Main actions in 2008
- EAPN responded to the Commission’s consultation on active inclusion: See EAPN response ( February 2008)
- EAPN developed its proposals on Active Inclusion Principles, which were discussed with our members in a stakeholder seminar in Paris. See EAPN proposals on Active Inclusion Principles and Report from the Paris Seminar on Active Inclusion (June 2008).
- EAPN is currently lobbying on the Commission’s proposals on Active Inclusion principles and their implementation through the Open Method of Coordination.
