Championed by progressives, intergenerational solidarity embodies the values of social justice, sustainability, and democracy. It builds on the universal character of human rights, which ensure equal dignity, well-being and a duty towards one community.
This policy brief analyses this concept, building on existing research and on wide consultation with academics, civil society as well as key stakeholders such as the Young European Socialists and the European Seniors Organisation. It constitutes a progressive contribution to the upcoming EU Strategy on Intergenerational Fairness, announced by the European Commission for early 2026.
Exploring how the question of solidarity between generations is mobilised in national contexts but also across existing EU policies, this policy brief presents building blocks for a comprehensive approach on this matter: welfare policies, democracy and participation, as well as policy mainstreaming and financing.
In the field of welfare policies, this policy brief addresses issues related to housing, employment and the future of work, care and healthcare, ensuring gender mainstreaming and intersectional approaches. Across all policies, the European Pillar of Social Rights remains a guiding framework for action.
When it comes to intergenerational democracy and participation, this policy brief addresses issues related to civic and citizenship education, lowering the voting age, cross-generational dialogue, youth participation, citizens assemblies and digital democracy.
Finally, the policy brief explores how to mainstream intergenerational solidarity across the EU policymaking process, via youth tests, generational check and wellbeing indicators. It also links with the negotiations for the post-2027 EU Multiannual Financial Framework.
