Poverty disproportionally affects people with disabilities. Today, approximately 29 million people across Europe are in a situation of poverty. For people with disabilities, barriers and discriminations hinder their meaningful participation in societal and economic spheres, often leading them and their families to precarious situations and poverty.

This is reflected at all stages of life. Children with disabilities often face barriers to quality education and care, limiting future opportunities. As adults, only half of the EU’s 42.8 million working-age persons with disabilities are employed, reducing economic independence and increasing poverty risks. Living with a disability often involves additional expenses, such as healthcare, assistive devices, or adapted houses, that are not always adequately supported by social protection systems. This makes it difficult for many to cover essential needs and live with dignity. 

EASPD contributed with this position paper to the European Commission consultation on the first-ever Anti-poverty Strategy, which aims to strenghten EU’s social agenda and lift millions out of poverty while reinforcing the EU’s competitiveness priorities.

read easpd's position paper

Citation:

EASPD. (2025). Skills for all: Bridging economic growth with social inclusion through the Union of Skills

Authors:

Clara Massé, Junior Policy Officer, clara.masse@easpd.eu
Konstantina Leventi, Head of Policy, konstantina.leventi@easpd.eu

Date:

Brussels, August 2025