Cyprus Presidency: Priorities for the Social Pillar

The Deputy Minister of Social Welfare, Klea Chatzistefanou Papaellina, presented the four priorities of the Cyprus Presidency for supporting the Social Pillar before the European Parliament in Brussels.

The priorities include combating poverty with an emphasis on child poverty, child welfare, strengthening long-term care and active aging, and promoting the rights of persons with disabilities.

Ms. Papaellina emphasized the commitment to promoting targeted policies for social inclusion and poverty reduction, addressing the challenges of the green and digital transition. The announcement of the first European Strategy for Combating Poverty is expected, which the Presidency will actively promote. In this context, the Cyprus Presidency has submitted a set of Council Conclusions entitled "Investing in Children: Strengthening Child Well-being, Social Inclusion and Combating Child Poverty in the European Union".

In addition, a High-Level Conference will be held in Cyprus entitled "No Child Left Behind". Strengthening long-term care and active aging, as well as promoting the rights of persons with disabilities, are also key priorities.

The Deputy Minister stressed the importance of close cooperation with the European Parliament to promote a strong and inclusive Europe.