Today EU leaders proclaimed the European Pillar of Social Rights at the Social Summit in Swedish Gothenburg, which was presented earlier this year by the EU Commission.

The European Pillar of Social Rights sets out 20 key principles and rights to support fair and well-functioning labour markets and welfare systems. It is structured around three categories: equal opportunities and access to the labour market; fair working conditions; social protection and inclusion. It is primarily conceived for the euro area but applicable to all EU Member States wishing to be part of it. Delivering on the principles and rights defined in the European Pillar of Social Rights is a joint responsibility of Member States, EU institutions social partners and other stakeholders.

The European Pillar of Social Rights has the potential to deliver the framework for a more inclusive Europe, where youth can find its place. That is why it is important that the Pillar should be implemented by national governments with a focus on specific measures for youth.

On January 19th the European Parliament voted a report, which sets young people at the center of the European social model. The report supports a solid Youth Guarantee, fitting learning and training content and suitable working conditions for internships and traineeships.

This development signifies that the European Parliament recognizes the difficulty young people come against during the transition from the education to the work field, the discrimination they are facing when it comes to unemployment schemes and the low salaries they receive.

Youth unemployment continues to be much higher than unemployment in the average population. Young people are also more likely to work in low paid jobs. As a result, more and more young people are living in poverty and are at risk of social exclusion early in life.

Implementing effective government policies is crucial to creating a more social Europe that works for young people.

The European Pillar for Social Rights would become an effective tool of change if it is backed by dedicated EU funding. The European Social Funds should channel resources to training, skills developments and the social inclusion of young people to combat youth unemployment.