Nicosia: Crucial social policy and employment issues will be discussed during the informal meeting of EU Ministers of Employment and Social Affairs (EPSCO), which is taking place in Nicosia on Thursday and Friday, according to an announcement by the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU 2026.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the meeting will begin with ministers participating in a cultural event in Larnaca on Thursday afternoon. The main discussions are scheduled for Friday in Nicosia. The agenda includes strengthening dialogue on social cohesion, eradicating poverty in Europe, and enhancing Long-Term Care and active ageing, all aimed at promoting the well-being of citizens in the European Union.
The afternoon session will focus on the European Anti-Poverty Strategy, the first of its kind, designed to bolster social protection policies within the EU. The strategy aims to address social inequalities and promote social inclusion, with an emphasis on cooperation among Member States for its implementation.
Additionally, discussions on Person-Centered Long-Term Care will highlight the need to transition to care systems that enhance autonomy, social inclusion, and the quality of life for the elderly, contributing to a fairer and more inclusive Europe.
The meeting will conclude with a press conference featuring Minister of Labour and Social Insurance Marinos Moushouttas, Deputy Minister of Social Welfare Clea Hadjistephanou Papaellina, and Executive Vice-President for Social Rights and Skills, Quality Jobs and Preparedness Roxana M®nzatu.