The Peer Review explored good practices and challenges of activation policies that support social inclusion and, as far as possible, integration into employment for those excluded from the labour market.

The Peer Review was attended by 40 participants from the host country (Belgium) and nine peer countries (Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Norway, Portugal, Slovenia). In addition, representatives from the European Commission, as well as a thematic expert put the topic in the wider context of EU policy.

Looking at the Belgian case

The online event examined the Belgian policy on social activation and participation. The public and private (not-for-profit) social welfare centres support minimum income beneficiaries and others at risk of poverty and social exclusion.

This, for example, includes local voluntary work, internships, cultural and sports events, learning on healthy eating, debt relief, self-care or recycling and upcycling.

The activities do not aim directly at work integration, but rather at stimulating and increasing the social competences, resilience and autonomy of people excluded from the labour market.

They aim to give beneficiaries of social activation measures a more structured life as part of the community and can also serve as a first step to take up employment.

Peer Review

The Peer Review examined various social activation measures, their main challenges and success factors. Thus, a number of good practices and practical examples were shared as part of the Peer Review.

Another key discussion question is the additional support and services that need to be provided along with social activation measures.

The event also reviewed how non-profit, for-profit and public stakeholders can be encouraged to participate in social activation approaches, as well as possible monitoring and evaluation frameworks for social activation approaches.

Background

Across Europe, signs of economic recovery before the COVID-19 related crisis did not necessarily translate into a reduction of inequalities and social exclusion.

Therefore, the active inclusion approach of people excluded from the labour market, outlined in the Commission Recommendation of 2008, remains highly relevant in promoting social inclusion and implementing the principles of the European Pillar of Social Rights.

The Recommendation proposes that Member States design and implement integrated, comprehensive strategies combining adequate income support, inclusive labour markets and access to quality services.