Bridging the Gap for a Social and Sustainable Europe in 2026

ongoing

"Social Rights (SR) are fundamental rights and crucial for the well-being of people living in Europe. The European social model is one of our greatest strengths, yet it is often overlooked, and disparities remain between Member States. To address these challenges, SOLIDAR, a network of more than 50 CSOs across Europe, has designed the program ""Bridging the Gap for a Social and Sustainable Europe 2026-2029"" (BRIDGE). This program aims to contribute to the development and monitoring of social policy in Europe, especially under the EPSR and related initiatives, at all levels. In 2026, BRIDGE will focus on: 1. Mainstreaming SR in EU policies by using tools like the Social Rights Monitor (SRM) to provide evidence-based insights. These findings are shared with policymakers during processes such as the European Semester to ensure SR are prioritized in decision-making. The methodology of a new monitor focused on migrant rights will be developed. 2. Strengthening the capacity of members in promoting and monitoring SR at national/local levels through trainings, study visits, and working groups tailored for understanding EU policy processes, engaging at relevant levels, and accessing to ESF+ funding. 3. Raising awareness among people living in Europe about their SR and their impact on daily life through tools like a modersised SRM Map —a quick and interactive way to learn about SR in Europe. 4. Building coalitions and strategic alliances with other CSOs, trade unions, policymakers, and academia to promote social justice and address related causes such as just transitions, migrant rights, and civic space protection. * SOLIDAR's main target groups are: (1) its members and partners, who reach millions of people and (2) EU/national/local stakeholders, including decision-makers, other CSOs and trade unions. *The main expected results include improved monitoring and progress toward implementing the EPSR and enhanced capacity to influence policies at EU, national and local levels."