On 6 May 2026, the European Commission presented its first-ever EU Anti-Poverty Strategy, a landmark initiative aimed at addressing poverty in a comprehensive way, tackling all reasons why people cannot meet their basic needs and participate fully in society. In 2024, 93 million people living in the EU were at risk of poverty or social exclusion. This is one in five people (21% of the population).
The Strategy frames this structural problem as a collective effort, calling on all levels of governance, social partners, civil society, the private sector, and people experiencing poverty themselves. The anti-poverty package comes in line with the European Commission’s efforts to address the cost of living, which has become a source of concern for many citizens. The aim is to ensure that everybody has access to quality jobs, affordable housing, energy, transport, long-term care and healthcare, as well as high-quality and safe food.
In this context, the Social Economy stands out as a key ally. Active across all economic sectors, social economy actors already deliver concrete, long-term, and people-centred solutions: from non-speculative and affordable housing models to inclusive and stable employment, as well as local food systems and community-based services. They not only contribute to social cohesion but also strengthen Europe’s competitiveness by anchoring economic activity in local needs and long-term value.
However, current discussions around the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) risk falling short of properly supporting the actors best placed to deliver these solutions. Without stronger social investment, the EU will weaken its own objectives.
To be in line with the social priorities and the European Pillar of Social Rights, the EU must commit to maintaining strong, stand-alone instruments such as the European Social Fund (ESF) and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). This is essential to ensure impact, transparency, and delivery on the EU’s social commitments, particularly in promoting quality jobs, education and training, and the fight against poverty and social exclusion.
For the EU Anti-Poverty Strategy to succeed, it must be supported by coherent funding priorities. Social spending is not a cost; it is an investment, especially in times of crisis.
