Advancing Social Rights without overlooking Civil Society

Eurochild reaction to the European Parliament’s position on the MFF 2028–2034.

Eurochild welcomes the European Parliament’s negotiating position on the next EU budget, adopted on 28 April, and its recognition that EU funding must support the Union’s core social objectives, including the implementation of the European Pillar of Social Rights.

At a time when nearly one in four children in the EU is at risk of poverty or social exclusion, the next EU budget must be a key driver in tackling child poverty. Instruments such as the European Child Guarantee and the upcoming EU Anti-Poverty Strategy require strong and dedicated financial backing to deliver meaningful change for children across Europe.

We particularly welcome the Parliament’s call to preserve the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) as a standalone instrument with a with a dedicated financial envelope of EUR 124,19 billion which is aligned with Eurochild’s call. This is essential to ensure continued investment in combating child poverty and social exclusion, developing and expanding inclusive and accessible ECEC, education, and support for the most vulnerable children.

However, we are concerned about proposals to reduce funding for programmes that support civil society and social innovation. Civil society organisations play a crucial role in reaching children and families in need, promoting fundamental rights, and ensuring accountability in the use of EU funds. The EU must actively counter the rise of anti-rights movements, which are already having a significant impact on children. Weakening their support risks undermining the EU’s capacity to combat not only child poverty and social exclusion but also violations of children’s rights.

The next MFF must not only maintain but strengthen investment in children and civil society. A robust, rights-based EU budget is essential to uphold the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights and to deliver on the commitment to lift millions of children out of poverty by 2030. Eurochild network will continue to provide evidence and recommendations to help shape an EU budget that delivers for children.