SOC events:SOC section debate on the European Pillar of Social Rights (EPSR) - 2026/09/07

 

INVITATION Section for Employment, Social Affairs and Citizenship (SOC) SOC section debate on the European Pillar of Social Rights (EPSR) 07/09/2026 | 14:30 – 15:30  Room JDE60, EESC, rue Belliard 99-101, 1040 Brussels and online

The Section for Employment, Social Affairs and Citizenship (SOC) of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) has the pleasure to invite you to follow, via webstream, a debate on the European Commission’s recent Communication on the European Pillar of Social Rights, on 7 September, 14:30–15:30.  The section's members, representing employers’ and workers’ organisations as well as civil society organisations from across the European Union, will exchange views, on a renewed commitment to the Pillar, with  Fabien DELL, Head of Unit, "Strategic, Legal and Interinstitutional Coordination", DG Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion (DG EMPL), European Commission, and  Ivailo KALFIN, Executive Director, European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions (Eurofound), on a renewed commitment to the Pillar,  The European Pillar of Social Rights remains a key compass for a fair and inclusive Europe. As its 10th anniversary approaches, the European Commission is looking at how the Pillar can respond to the profound transformations affecting our economies, labour markets and societies.   The new Communication takes stock of progress so far, identifies areas where further action is needed and sets out targeted measures to complement the 2021 Action Plan. It also opens a broader reflection on how Europe can anticipate and manage structural change while continuing to protect, empower and create opportunities for its citizens. EESC's work   The EESC is currently preparing an opinion on the Communication on the European Pilar of Social Rights (SOC/885), to be adopted in February 2027 (tbc). Previous relevant opinions include:   SOC/822 opinion New Action Plan on the implementation of the European Pillar of Social Rights, 2025 EESC Resolution - European Civil Society Working in Partnership for our Sustainable Future, as a contribution to the Porto Social Summit for the Portuguese EU presidency, 2021 SOC/679 opinion Action plan on the implementation of the European Pillar of Social Rights, 2021   Background Jointly proclaimed in 2017 by the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission, the European Pillar of Social Rights’ 20 principles established a shared framework to promote social rights and improve living and working conditions across the EU. The 2021 Action Plan endorsed at the Porto Social Summit translated these principles into concrete initiatives to strengthen the EU’s social fabric, putting forward 75 actions and three 2030 headline targets.   Since then, the Pillar has guided measures at EU level and in Member States, proving its value as a shield in times of crisis and a compass to help guide us through the transformations facing the EU.   The programme is available on the EESC website.   The hearing will be webstreamed (EN) on this page on the day of the event. Prior registration for the streaming is not required and participation is free of charge. For any questions related to the event you can contact soc-events@eesc.europa.eu by e-mail.   NB: In accordance with existing rules, no daily allowance for participation in video conferences is granted.

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