We are pleased to invite you to our joint EZA-WOW Snack Debate, where we will explore the future of EU social policy in light of recent developments.

Just five months ago, the signing of the La Hulpe Declaration filled us with hope for a stronger Social Europe. This ambitious document reflected a shared commitment by EU institutions to place social policy at the forefront of the European agenda for the years to come.

However, following the June European elections and the formation of the new Commission, the focus seems to have shifted. As we have witnessed once again in recent days with the publication of the "Draghi report", competitiveness seems to have become the new mantra of the next legislature - and social policy is in danger of being relegated to the back seat.

In response to these developments, our discussion will center around three key questions:

• What can we expect from the new Commission in the social policy area?
• Is there a gap between the bold promises of the La Hulpe Declaration and the new Commission’s restrained social agenda?
• How might the new Commission’s focus on competitiveness and security impact the advancement of social policy in the EU?

To help us navigate these crucial questions, we have invited Francesco Corti, advisor to the Belgian Minister for Employment and Social Affairs and a key figure behind the La Hulpe Declaration, to share his insights.

Date: 24/09/2024

Time: 12:00-13:00

Location: online