"Families should be at the centre of the European social agenda, they are the cornerstone of our societies, and EU policies should support Member States in creating environments where families are  valued, supported and nurtured", said ECR Vice-President Anna Magyar during the debate with European Commissioner for Social Rights and Skills, Quality Jobs and Preparedness, Roxana Mînzatu.

The translation of the European Pillar of Social Rights into policy is primarily a responsibility of the Member States, working with regions and local authorities under the principle of subsidiarity. This approach matters because it allows policies to respond effectively to realities on the ground — in particular to alarming demographic trends across Europe.

"Low birth rates, ageing populations and skilled labour shortages are undermining the sustainability of our economic growth, social systems and cultural continuity", underlined Magyar who also stressed how "family-friendly policies are not only about social rights, but they are also about Europe’s future”. The ECR VP explained that when people feel they can receive quality education, healthcare, and secure employment in their place of origin, they gain the confidence to start and raise families. 

Magyar also referred to one of the ECR Group priorities: the right to remain. In this regard, she said that "citizens should not feel forced to leave their regions in search of opportunities”. To counteract this phenomenon, there should be more investment in local education and training systems aligned with the needs of the emerging labour market. By doing so, “we can give people the real choice to build their lives where they are”.