EASPD has contributed to the European Commission’s public consultation on the future of EU public procurement rules, reinforced by the joint response coordinated by Social Services Europe (SSE) and Network for Sustainable Development in Public Procurement (NSDPP). 

Why it matters? 

Public procurement is the process through which public authorities use public money to buy services, works, and goods – from building infrastructure to funding social and care services. Across the EU, public procurement represents around 15% of GDP, making it a powerful tool that could support disability services provision.  

Many EASPD members rely on public funding to deliver essential care and support services, yet, they often face complex procedures, excessive administrative burden, risks of legal challenges and competition based primarily on price rather than quality. 

How can we make a change? 

The European Commission is currently reviewing the EU rules that govern public procurement, with a legislative proposal expected in 2026. This review follows an extensive evaluation, which identified many gaps, challenges and opportunities of public procurement for our sector in the existing legislation.  

EASPD responded to a questionnaire and submitted its position paper highlighting needs for procurement rules that better reflect the reality of social and disability services. EASPD worked on its position as a part of two alliances – Social Services Europe (SSE) and Network for Sustainable Development in Public Procurement (NSDPP). 

Public Procurement policy paper 

EASPD calls, among others, for public authorities to choose providers based on quality, accessibility, and social impact, rather than cost alone; creating guidelines and training opportunities for public authorities to ensure that accessibility and inclusion are at the heart of the publicly funded services; and making it easier to reserve certain contracts for organisations that employ persons with disabilities. 

Citation:  

EASPD (2026). EASPD Reply to the European Commission Call for Evidence for an Impact Assessment of the Public Procurement Directives. 

Authors: 

Lyzaveta Drannikova (EASPD), Social Services Europe (SSE), Network for Sustainable Development in Public Procurement (NSDPP). 

Date:  

Brussels, January 2026