The European Parliament’s Committee on Employment and Social Affairs (EMPL) adopted its position on the Developing a New EU Anti-Poverty Strategy report. Civil society groups united under the Coalition on the EU Anti-Poverty Strategy have issued a joint statement urging Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) to support this ambitious position in the upcoming plenary vote scheduled for January 2026. 

The coalition argues that the first-ever EU Anti-Poverty Strategy, due to be presented by the European Commission in 2026, must be comprehensive, properly funded, and anchored in concrete targets to genuinely eradicate poverty, rather than relying on fragmented or short-term actions. 

They further stress that poverty continues to affect millions of children across the EU, limiting their access to adequate housing, nutritious food, education, healthcare and safe living environments. They argue that the forthcoming EU Anti-Poverty Strategy, expected in 2026, must take a rights-based, child-centred approach, recognising poverty as a multidimensional issue that impacts every aspect of a child’s life. 

The EMPL report is welcomed by the coalition for recognising the multidimensional nature of poverty and pushing for measures that go beyond employment-only approaches. It calls for meaningful participation of people experiencing poverty, a proposal for an EU Directive on Minimum Income, decisive action on the cost of living crisis, and improved access to essentials like food, energy, water and housing. 

While positive inclusions around discrimination and homelessness are highlighted, the coalition urges further efforts to address gaps—especially policies affecting marginalised groups including LGBTQIA+ people, migrants and single parents.