Social protection and inclusion systems aim to ensure that all individuals have access to adequate income support, essential services, and opportunities for participation in society, particularly during times of vulnerability. This includes social security systems, like pensions, healthcare, unemployment benefits and minimum income schemes for individuals facing job loss, illness, or retirement. Social inclusion targets marginalised and vulnerable groups reducing inequalities, and promoting access to education, employment, and basic services.
The European Pillar of Social Rights, introduced in 2017, emphasises the need for well-functioning social protection systems and inclusive policies across the EU. Promoting strong social protection and inclusion frameworks supports multiple policy goals, including poverty reduction, equality, and social cohesion. These systems also contribute to economic stability by safeguarding individuals from income shocks and fostering more inclusive labour markets.
Building on its expertise in social policy, Milieu has been contributing to social protection and inclusion policy through projects for the European Commission, the European Parliament, and other stakeholders.
Some examples of such projects include:
This study, prepared for the European Commission (DG HOME), examines gaps in the protection of third-country seasonal workers in the EU and proposes policy options to address these issues. The study identifies key challenges faced by these workers, including poor working conditions, inadequate accommodation, limited access to social protections, and weak enforcement of regulations under the Seasonal Workers Directive (SWD).
The report compares the protection of workers under the SWD with those employed through other permit schemes. Based on extensive research and consultations, the report suggests a range of policy measures, from improved information provision to stronger monitoring and enforcement, as well as potential legislative changes to enhance protection of third-country seasonal workers.
Commissioned by the European Commission DG EMPL, this study explores access to essential services across EU Member States, focusing on barriers such as affordability, availability, and quality. It supports the implementation of Principle 20 of the European Pillar of Social Rights, which ensures the right to essential services like water, energy, transport, and digital communication for all, with special support for those in need.
Through desk research, national reports, and quantitative analysis using Eurostat data, the study identifies key challenges faced by households, particularly those at risk of poverty. It also highlights policy measures, such as price caps, service-specific subsidies, and automatic benefit allocation, that improve access in various countries. The findings emphasise the importance of monitoring and tailored policy approaches to address gaps in access to essential services across the EU. Read the full report here.
This study, commissioned by the European Labour Authority (ELA), examines the use of digital services and tools in coordinating social security systems across EU Member States, focusing on how these technologies facilitate cross-border cooperation and improve efficiency. ELA promotes the adoption of innovative digital approaches to enhance message exchange, detect fraud, and improve real-time access to data between Member States.
Milieu and its partners were tasked with creating an overview of the digital services currently in use or in development across Member States, assessing their availability, scope, and quality. The study also highlights national-level innovations and identifies best practices, providing a valuable resource for cross-country learning. By analysing the barriers and opportunities for further digitalisation in social security coordination, Milieu supports Member States in enhancing their systems, fostering more efficient and interconnected social security frameworks across the EU.