Casa and Maij call for strong, stand-alone EU Social Fund

Brussels, 5 March 2026 — Members of the European Parliament David Casa (EPP) and Marit Maij (S&D) today hosted a meeting with stakeholders from across Europe to gather input on the future of the European Social Fund (ESF) as work begins in the European Parliament on the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF).

The meeting, held at the European Parliament, brought together civil society organisations, social partners and stakeholders involved in the implementation of ESF programmes across the European Union. Participants shared their views on the European Commission’s proposal for the next ESF and highlighted lessons learned from national implementation.

Casa and Maij were recently appointed co-rapporteurs responsible for leading the European Parliament’s work on the legislative proposal.

Speaking after the meeting, PN Head of Delegation David Casa stressed that the future ESF must remain a strong and clearly identifiable instrument dedicated to investing in people.

“The European Social Fund has helped millions of Europeans access training, employment and social support. As co-rapporteurs, we want to ensure the next ESF remains a strong and effective instrument that delivers real opportunities for workers, jobseekers and vulnerable communities across Europe. It is essential that the ESF remains a stand-alone fund with a clear social mission, not diluted within broader national investment plans,” said David Casa.

Marit Maij underlined the importance of maintaining a strong social dimension in the EU’s long-term budget.

“The European Social Fund is the EU’s most important tool to fight poverty, promote quality jobs and invest in people. To remain effective, it must retain its clear identity and focus. Integrating social funding into wider national plans risks weakening the visibility and impact of programmes that directly support people and communities across Europe,” said Marit Maij.

The input gathered during the meeting will feed into the European Parliament’s work as it prepares its position on the future of the European Social Fund within the EU’s next long-term budget.