Children’s rights are currently taking a centrale stage in European Union policies, with renewed actions to fight against child poverty, which is still impacting out of 1 out of 4 children in Europe. 

Member States call for greater actions to tackle child poverty

At the Employment, Social Policy, Health and Consumer Affairs (EPSCO) Council on 9 March 2026, social ministers adopted important conclusions on “Investing in children”.  

The Member States acknowledge that fighting child poverty is not only a moral and human right obligation, but also a social and economic investment. This echoes the Alliance for investing in Children's Paper, which highlights that early support is cost-effective, boosting children’s inclusion, cognitive development, and well-being while securing better adult socioeconomic outcomes, social integration, and overall economic growth. 

The conclusions call on Member States and the European Commission to intensify their efforts in combating child poverty and enhancing social inclusion, specifically for children in most disadvantage situations like children with disabilities. 

As a key instrument to achieve this, the European Child Guarantee should be strengthened, particularly by boosting investments in early childhood education and care for the most vulnerable children. 

Public consultation on the Child Guarantee 

Recognising the persistence of child poverty across Europe, the European Commission has launched an open consultation aiming to strengthen the European Child Guarantee. 

This initiative seeks to outline concrete actions to support national and local implementation, ensuring better access to key services for children in need.  

EASPD is actively contributing to this dialogue, providing its own contribution which will advocate for inclusive education and the establishment of robust national Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) systems. 

Looking ahead, the Commission is expected to announce this strengthened initiative in early May. This announcement will be part of a broader package that includes a much-anticipated Anti-Poverty Strategy and a Council Recommendation aimed at fighting housing exclusion.  

As these critical policies take shape, your input is vital to ensure that the future of children in Europe is built on equity and opportunity. 

You have until 9 April, so make your voice heard!