Brussels, 01/07/2014 (Agence Europe) - At its General Assembly in Tallinn on 27-28 June, the European Anti-poverty Network (EAPN) welcomed the “seemingly positive shift” brought by the adoption of the new strategic agenda by the European Council on Friday 27 June.
According to a press release published on Tuesday 1 July, the EAPN's enthusiasm can be explained by the “signs of a potentially crucial shift, reflecting several EAPN's concerns and key messages over the last years”. Sergio Aires, EAPN President, interprets the most recent results from the European Council as “the realisation that a new balance must be struck between the economic and the social policies”. He added: “We hope that this gives a sign that the Council will now take steps towards an EU framework directive on minimum income”.
The EAPN notes several key points from the EU strategic agenda, such the need to tackle social exclusion, poverty, unemployment and inequality. Although the EAPN is not happy with the focus on competitiveness, it welcomes the reference to create more and better jobs and to invest in education. The references to the importance of safety nets and social protection, and to the need to guarantee equality by tackling tax evasion and maintaining quality safety nets that ensure universal access to public services and benefits for all are also perceived as encouraging signs. (JK)