2010 European Year for Combating Poverty and Social Exclusion

The European Commission and Spanish EU Presidency chose 2010 as the European Year for Combating Poverty and Social Exclusion under the slogan 'Stop Poverty Now!'.

Ten years ago, EU leaders pledged to 'make a decisive impact on the eradication of poverty' by 2010. Today however, almost 80 million Europeans are at risk of poverty, living on an income below 60% of the average household income in their country. As unemployment continues to rise across the EU, the timing of this particular special year seems opportune.

"The European Year 2010 should act as a catalyst to raise awareness and build momentum for a more inclusive society which is part and parcel of the EU's future 2020 strategy that I have proposed," said European Commission President José Manuel Barroso.

It is important to point out the close link between discrimination and poverty and social exclusion. Discrimination is one of the causes of poverty and social exclusion. Furthermore, poverty and social exclusion also increase the risk to experience discrimination.

Relevant EU links

European Year for Combating Poverty and Social Exclusion 2010

http://www.2010againstpoverty.eu

Calendar of events

http://www.2010againstpoverty.eu/calendarofevents/?langid=en

Equinet links

Leaflet on equality bodies' participation in the campaign (pdf, 126Kb)

Information on policy developments in Europe on Equinet's website