The European Pillar of Social Rights
Overview
The European Pillar of Social Rights (EPSR) was set out in 2017 by the EU to act as a compass for a strong social Europe. The EPSR sets out 20 principles in three main areas: (1) equal opportunities and access to the labour market (2) fair working conditions and (3) social protection and inclusion.
All 20 principles relate to the lives of persons with disabilities, as well as to their service providers in areas such as employment, education and training, or long-term care. Principle 17 relates to the inclusion of people with disabilities and states that they have the right to income support, a work environment that is adapted to their needs, and services that enable them to participate in the labour market and society.
The European Commission launched its proposal for an Action Plan for the EPSR in March 2021. Following this, in May 2021, the European Commission, Member States, Social Partners and Civil Society committed to 3 targets to achieve by 2030:
At least 78% of people aged 20 to 64 should be in employment
At least 60% of all adults should participate in training every year
The number of people at risk of poverty or social exclusion should be reduced by at least 15 million, including at least 5 million children.
