La Hulpe declaration: shaping the future of social Europe

The Conference’s primary goal was to adopt an interinstitutional declaration, signed by the EU institutions (European Commission, European Parliament, and Council of the EU), social partners, and civil society.  

This declaration aims to set the future social agenda for the 2024-2029 period and reaffirm the European pillar of social rights as the guiding compass for EU social policy in the coming years. 

The La Hulpe declaration represents a significant step towards a more inclusive and resilient Europe. By committing to the principles of the European pillar of social rights, the EU and its member states are dedicated to ensuring a fair transition, protecting social welfare, and enhancing the well-being of all Europeans.  

As Europe navigates future challenges, the implementation of these principles will be crucial in fostering a sustainable and equitable society. Indeed, Europe will encounter new challenges such as climate change, the green and digital transitions, demographic shifts, and geopolitical instability. To prepare our welfare states for these challenges and to mitigate their impact on citizens, further implementation of the European pillar of social rights is essential. 

The European pillar of social rights offers a comprehensive framework of principles guiding EU and national policies on equal opportunities, labour market access, fair working conditions, and social protection and inclusion. Strengthening the implementation of these principles is vital to building a Europe.