European platform against poverty and social exclusion

With more than 80 million people in the EU at risk of poverty – including 20 million children and 8% of the working population – the European Platform against poverty and social exclusion sets out actions to reach the EU target of reducing poverty and social exclusion by at least 20 million by 2020.

Launched in 2010, the platform is part of the Europe 2020 strategy for smart, sustainable and inclusive growth.

Methods

Although combating poverty and social exclusion is mainly the responsibility of national governments, the EU can play a coordinating role by:

• identifying best practices and promoting mutual learning
• setting up EU-wide rules
• making funding available

Key actions

• Improved access to work, social security, essential services (healthcare, housing, etc.) and education
• Better use of EU funds to support social inclusion and combat discrimination
• Social innovation to find smart solutions in post-crisis Europe, especially in terms of more effective and efficient social support
• New partnerships between the public and the private sector