The conference takes stock and sets the compass for European social and employment policies during the next EU legislative term, following the European elections in June this year. The objective is to sign an interinstitutional declaration on the future social agenda of the EU, the so-called ‘La Hulpe Declaration’, for the further implementation of the European Pillar of Social Rights, the EU’s overarching framework to advance social and employment policies in the EU and the Member States. The conference brings together key policymakers, stakeholders and experts.

CESI Secretary General Klaus Heeger said: “I am glad to participate today at the La Hulpe High Level Conference on the European Pillar of Social Rights and represent CESI’s over 6 million members and affiliates across Europe, equivalent to 15% of the unionised workforce in Europe. We share the Belgian Council Presidency’s consideration that a pluralistic and inclusive conference is what will bring forward the implementation of the European Pillar of Social Rights. Employment and social policies in Europe can only be successful if they consider and involve the voices and insights of as many workers as possible, if as many workers as possible can take ownership in the European Pillar of Social Rights and are given the opportunity to engage and commit fully. A successful implementation of the Pillar will require joint efforts and forces – the full engagement and commitment of CESI and its members.”

He added: “The agenda of the summit is ambitious, and rightly so. In times of perma- and polycrisis spanning from the Russian war in Ukraine to the ongoing challenges of digitalisation, the green transition and demographic ageing that impact on economies and societies in profoundly transforming ways, there is urgency to design labour markets, employment rights, social protection and social cohesion in a sustainable, inclusive and future-proof manner. The continued focus on the European Pillar of Social Rights as a compass in EU and national policy-making is of major importance in this regard, and the summit in La Hulpe is an important occasion to recall this.”