The aim of the present paper is to provide a basis for an in-depth discussion of the European Commission’s initiative for a ‘European Pillar of Social Rights’ by briefly examining its context. The content of the Commission’s Communication is reviewed and followed by a more detailed...

Introduction -- The EU social policy context -- The EU fundamental social rights landscape -- The EU constitutional framework -- Implementing the objective of combating poverty and social exclusion under EU Law -- General conclusions.

The European Pillar of Social Rights (EPSR) was to be implemented in a growth and stability period, once the financial crisis was overcome. However, an unexpected and bigger social and economic crisis has developed with the COVID-19 pandemic. The lack of employment opportunities, the precarious...

Social Europe is back on the political agenda - as a result of severe economic crises, prior austerity policies and a change in the European discourse framework. Six years after being announced, the European Pillar of Social Rights - although legally non-binding - has become the central...