Brussels, March 10, 2025 — European Union ministers are gathering today for the Employment, Social Policy, Health, and Consumer Affairs Council (EPSCO) meeting to discuss key social and labor market challenges. A major focus of the meeting will be the impact of an aging population—referred to as the ‘silver transformation’—on employment and skills shortages across the EU.
Tackling Labor and Skills Shortages
As part of the European Semester discussions, ministers are set to hold a policy debate on ways to address barriers preventing older individuals from staying in or re-entering the workforce. The goal is to explore strategies that promote active aging, upskilling, and workforce participation among older citizens.
European Semester and Policy Recommendations
Ministers are also expected to approve contributions on the employment and social aspects of the 2025 recommendation for the euro area’s economic policy. Additionally, they will discuss and adopt the 2025 Joint Employment Report, which assesses labor market trends and policy responses across the EU. The Employment Committee (EMCO) and the Social Protection Committee (SPC) will present their insights on how fiscal and structural reforms align with EPSCO’s work.
Focus on the Silver Economy
Aging populations pose challenges but also offer economic opportunities. The concept of the ‘silver economy‘—which encompasses goods, services, and policies that support older individuals—is increasingly recognized as a driver of economic growth. The EU aims to create policies that maximize these opportunities while ensuring social protection and labor market adaptability.
Other Topics on the EPSCO Meeting Agenda
Beyond the silver transformation, ministers will discuss:
- Events organized by the Polish presidency, outlining priorities in social policy.
- Preparations for the Tripartite Social Summit, where EU institutions, employers, and trade unions will engage in dialogue.
- The 2025 work programmes of EMCO and SPC, defining key labor and social policy objectives.
- Directive 79/7 on equal treatment, focusing on gender equality in social security matters.
Informal Lunch Debate: The Right to Disconnect
During a working lunch, ministers will also hold an informal debate on the right to disconnect, discussing the challenges of digital work-life balance and potential policy approaches to protect workers from overconnectivity.
Looking Ahead
As the meeting unfolds, ministers will work toward shaping policies that support inclusive labor markets and economic resilience. The discussions and decisions made today will play a crucial role in shaping the EU’s approach to demographic change and social policy in the coming years.
