EU Parliament Sets Ambitious Goal: Eradicating Poverty by 2035
The European Parliament has signaled a strong commitment to tackling poverty and social exclusion across the European Union, setting a target for complete eradication by 2035. This initiative, gaining momentum in early 2026, focuses on a multi-faceted approach encompassing economic empowerment, social protection, and targeted support for vulnerable groups, particularly children.
The Human Cost of Poverty: A Call for Dignity
Deputies emphasize that poverty isn’t merely an economic issue; it’s a fundamental violation of human dignity. This perspective is driving a push for the European Commission to prioritize poverty reduction in its upcoming strategy, due to be developed by 2026. The strategy will outline concrete objectives and measurable targets for achieving the 2035 goal.
Focus on Child Poverty: A Generation at Risk
A particularly pressing concern is the rising rate of child poverty in Europe, with one in four children currently at risk. The Parliament is urging member states to bolster the implementation of the European Child Guarantee. This guarantee aims to ensure all children in demand have access to free healthcare, education, adequate care, and nutritious food.
To support this, Parliament members are advocating for a dedicated budget of at least €20 billion for the European Child Guarantee. They propose that at least 5% of funds from the European Social Fund+ be specifically allocated to projects combating child poverty, with a minimum of 10% directed towards countries with higher-than-average rates of child poverty and social exclusion.
Employment and Social Rights: The Cornerstones of Progress
Recognizing the link between employment and poverty reduction, the Parliament is calling for policies that promote full employment, robust social protection systems, and the protection of workers’ rights, including fair wages. Access to affordable childcare and professional guidance are also highlighted as crucial elements in breaking the cycle of working poverty.
Beyond Economics: Access to Essential Services
The Parliament stresses the importance of universal access to essential public services, including housing, food, water, sanitation, energy, and transportation. Increased public investment in these areas is seen as vital for preventing intergenerational poverty and fostering social inclusion. A specific action plan to end homelessness across the EU by 2030, with a focus on children, families, and vulnerable workers, is also being proposed.
Empowering Those Affected: A Voice in Policy
A key element of the proposed strategy is the inclusion of people experiencing poverty in the policy-making process. This ensures that policies are informed by lived experiences and effectively address the root causes of poverty.
Current Landscape: The Scale of the Challenge
According to data from the European Commission, in 2024, 93.3 million people in the EU were at risk of poverty or social exclusion, including nearly 20 million children – representing a quarter of all children in the EU. This underscores the urgency of the Parliament’s initiative.
The European Pillar of Social Rights Action Plan commits the EU to reducing the number of people at risk of poverty or social exclusion by at least 15 million by 2030, including at least 5 million children.
FAQ: Addressing Common Questions
Q: What is the European Child Guarantee?
A: It’s an EU initiative designed to ensure all children at risk of poverty or social exclusion have access to essential services like healthcare, education, and nutrition.
Q: What is the timeline for achieving the 2035 poverty eradication goal?
A: The European Commission is expected to develop a comprehensive strategy by 2026, with concrete targets and milestones leading up to the 2035 deadline.
Q: How much funding is being proposed for the European Child Guarantee?
A: Parliament members are advocating for a dedicated budget of at least €20 billion.
Q: What role do member states play in this initiative?
A: Member states are responsible for implementing the European Child Guarantee and allocating funds from the European Social Fund+ to projects combating child poverty.
Did you know? Nearly one-fifth of the EU population – over 93 million people – were at risk of poverty or social exclusion in 2024.
Pro Tip: Stay informed about the progress of the EU’s poverty reduction strategy by following updates from the European Parliament and the European Commission.
Desire to learn more about the European Social Fund+ and how it supports social inclusion? Click here to visit the European Commission’s website.
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