Developing an EPAP that is effective in the fight against poverty
Due to the economic crisis and effects of austerity measures, Europe has witnessed an increase in poverty and social exclusion of 4million more people in the last 3 years. Inequalities between the north and south and between wealthy and poor continue to rise, making the debate on poverty and how to address it even more critical.
An integrated poverty and social exclusion strategy at EU and national level is needed. This is the only way to ensure an immediate reduction in poverty. While such a strategy is still lacking, it is essential that existing instruments are used as effectively as possible. The European Platform Against Poverty and Social Exclusion (EPAP), is an opportunity to harness the various instruments and policies available in a systematic and strategic way. In addition, the Social Investment Package (SIP) is a welcome initiative and a step in the right direction. But the bigger picture of how different instruments and processes in the social field (the EPAP, SIP and Social OMC) should work together to achieve a reduction of poverty could still use clarity.
This clarity will hopefully be found through the 2013 Annual Convention of the EPAP. It is a unique opportunity to bring together various strands of action and ensure their effectiveness and efficiency. However, the Convention must also be a political forum ensuring clear political outcomes that inform and influence both social and economic dialogues at EU and member state level and beyond.
The EPAP and its Convention are a perfect opportunity for the EU to take stock of the implementation of the poverty target in all member states and where necessary raise questions about the reality of poverty across Europe. It should look at different aspects of poverty and priority areas for action, such as homelessness, child poverty and in-work poverty as well as ensure issues of gender, discrimination, accessibility and participation are included in all discussions.
For the Convention to reach its goals participation of all key stakeholders is essential. This element of democratic participation means ensuring diversity of participants and for them to share their experiences and give input. This is particularly essential for people experiencing poverty and social exclusion as their real life experience is the most powerful testament to the impact of badly designed or implemented social and economic policies. The Convention can also promote dialogue between member states and civil society which is sadly lacking in the wider European Semester process. The more we can ensure the effective involvement of civil society and other stakeholders in the European processes, the more we will improve the quality of policy making and enhance overall legitimacy. This would help address growing concerns around the issue of democratic and civic engagement in European governance.
The Convention needs to combine maximum participation with real political impact to go beyond the exchange of information and be results orientated.
The eradication of poverty requires a real commitment from all actors. We owe it to the 120 million people experiencing poverty and social exclusion to make this integrated effort and to move the debate on poverty forward.
Heather Roy,
President, Social Platform
