Posted on July 28, 2026
The European Commission has reaffirmed the importance of the European Pillar of Social Rights as Europe responds to rapid technological, economic and social change.
In a Communication adopted on 22 July 2026, the Commission described the Pillar as the EU’s social shield and its compass for fairness. The Communication reviews the progress made in strengthening social rights across Europe and identifies priorities for ensuring that citizens can benefit from ongoing transformations while remaining protected from emerging risks.
The European Pillar of Social Rights was adopted in 2017 and includes 20 principles covering fair working conditions, social protection and equal opportunities. It has since guided European initiatives in areas including minimum wages, employment, training and poverty reduction.
Three Priorities for a Changing Europe
The Commission has identified three areas requiring additional and urgent attention:
- Addressing affordability and the rising cost of living
- Harnessing artificial intelligence for the future of work and shared prosperity
- Reducing inequalities and expanding fairness and equal opportunities
While these priorities address different challenges, they are closely connected. Europe’s ability to manage technological change fairly will depend on whether people have access to relevant skills, quality employment and meaningful opportunities to participate in the digital economy.
“Social Europe is not a cost. It is the foundation of our prosperity. The European Pillar of Social Rights has been our shield in crises and our roadmap to recovery. Now, as AI transforms work, living costs rise, and inequalities persist, we must recommit to the Pillar’s principles. We are reaffirming our commitment to a social Europe that equips people for change, protects them against new risks and creates opportunities for everyone.”
Roxana Mînzatu, Executive Vice-President for Social Rights and Skills, Quality Jobs and Preparedness
Preparing People for an AI-Enabled Economy
The Communication recognises that the rapid development and adoption of artificial intelligence is already transforming European labour markets.
AI presents significant opportunities for innovation, productivity, learning and economic growth. However, it also raises important questions concerning the future of employment, education, skills, inclusion and public services.
To help Europe prepare for these changes, the Commission plans to establish a new high-level group examining the impact of AI on the labour market. This reflects the growing need for coordinated action involving policymakers, education providers, employers and workers.
Ensuring that people can use AI effectively and responsibly will require more than access to technology. It will require practical digital skills, opportunities for continuous learning and education programmes that can respond to changes in industry.
Advanced Digital Skills as a Foundation for Opportunity
The renewed commitment to the European Pillar of Social Rights reinforces the importance of investing in people as Europe’s economy becomes increasingly digital.
Advanced skills in artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, cloud computing and digital transformation are becoming relevant across a growing number of occupations and sectors. Building these capabilities can help workers adapt to changing roles, support businesses in adopting new technologies and enable Europe to translate innovation into shared prosperity.
This is closely aligned with the objectives of Digital4Business, which brings together education and industry partners to deliver flexible, accessible and industry-informed learning in advanced digital technologies.
Through its online Master’s programme and individual microcredentials, Digital4Business supports learners in developing the technical, strategic and business skills needed to navigate digital transformation. Its emphasis on flexible learning also helps professionals combine education with existing work and personal commitments.
Supporting a Fair and Inclusive Digital Transition
The benefits of technological transformation will not be shared equally unless access to education, skills development and quality employment is placed at the centre of Europe’s approach.
The Commission’s Communication acknowledges that persistent inequalities can weaken social cohesion, innovation and long-term competitiveness. It therefore calls for continued action to expand equal opportunities and ensure that people facing barriers to employment are supported in entering and participating in the labour market.
For digital education providers, employers and policymakers, this means designing learning opportunities that are accessible to people from different backgrounds and at different stages of their careers.
As AI reshapes work, Europe’s success will depend not only on how quickly new technologies are adopted, but also on how effectively people are prepared and empowered to use them. By connecting social rights, quality jobs and skills development, the renewed European Pillar of Social Rights provides an important framework for creating a digital transition that works for everyone.
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