On 6–7 October 2025, the HIVA – EZA Conference took place at the Catholic University of Leuven (KUL). Under the title “The State of the Welfare State in the EU anno 1992 and 30 years later – Who pays the ferryman?”, the long-standing event looked back on three decades of European social policy – and ahead to the future of the welfare state in times of geopolitical uncertainty, digital transformation and social challenges.
A strong Europe needs social security
In his opening speech, Luc Van den Brande, President of EZA, highlighted that the conference builds on more than 30 years of joint research between EZA and HIVA – KU Leuven. The initiative dates back to 1992, the year of the Maastricht Treaty, when Europe was moving closer together economically – but there were concerns that “Social Europe” might fall behind. Since then, the conference has served as a mirror of European integration and a platform for scientific exchange on social justice, competitiveness and solidarity.
Van den Brande focused on today’s complex challenges: multiple crises, wars, geopolitical tensions and a changing world of work driven by digitalisation and artificial intelligence. He called for the strengthening of democracy, social cohesion and the rule of law – values deeply rooted in the European social model.
“Competitiveness and security must never come at the expense of social protection,” Van den Brande emphasised.
He underlined the importance of the European Pillar of Social Rights (EPSR) and the need for a new Social Pact that strengthens labour rights, education, inclusion and fair working conditions. Social dialogue, he said, is a central instrument for promoting democracy at the workplace and in society.
Dialogue, compromise and European solidarity
In her closing remarks, Sigrid Schraml, EZA Secretary-General, stressed that the conference perfectly exemplifies EZA’s contribution to a social Europe. EZA currently unites 70 member organisations across 30 countries, organising around 70 educational seminars, workshops and research projects each year to strengthen workers’ representation and promote social dialogue.
Schraml underlined the importance of dialogue and the willingness to compromise as essential drivers of social progress in Europe.
“Our societies are diverse. There is a competition of ideas – but we must not forget how to bring them together and work for the common good.”
Europe, she said, needs strong leaders within workers’ organisations who think beyond national borders and actively shape European networks. Only through continuous education, exchange and cooperation can social justice and democracy be safeguarded.
Referring to the conference motto “Who pays the ferryman?”, Schraml acknowledged that financing the welfare state remains a challenge, yet expressed optimism for the future:
“Together we can ensure that those who rely on the welfare state will find access to it more promising and life-affirming than Hades was.”
A shared goal: social justice in Europe
The two-day conference made it clear: social security, democracy and competitiveness are inseparable. Only through dialogue, education and solidarity can Europe continue to strengthen its social dimension.
EZA expressed its heartfelt thanks to the hosts at HIVA/KU Leuven, led by Prof. Jozef Pacolet, as well as to all speakers, participants and supporters – and is already looking forward to the eighth edition of this important European forum.