Following a 2022 decision from the Committee of Ministers, which spearheaded the 2022 reform of the European Social Charter, States Parties can be asked to submit ad hoc reports for analysis or review by the European Committee of Social Rights. Such reports may be requested when new or critical issues arise with a broad or transversal scope or with a pan-European dimension.

 Following the above-mentioned decision, in 2023, the European Committee of Social Rights and the Governmental Committee have decided to request an ad hoc report on the cost-of-living crisis to all States Parties to the European Social Charter.

 Questions to State Parties on ad hoc reports concerning the cost of living crisis.

The subject and timing of ad hoc reports is decided by the European Committee of Social Rights and the Governmental Committee.

As set out in a 2022 decision from the Committee of Ministers, the European Committee of Social Rights is invited to examine the information provided by the States concerned, following which it may provide a general overview of the situation and a broad legal analysis from a Charter’s perspective (such comments may include Statements of Interpretations). However, the European Committee of Social Rights may not issue Conclusions on the conformity of the situation with the Charter, in the context of the ad hoc reporting procedure.

As per Rule 21A of the European Committee of Social Rights’ Rules, other organisations, institutions and entities may submit comments on ad hoc States’ reports: trade unions and employers’ organisations, (I)NGOs national human rights institutions and national equality bodies. Please note that whether and how such comments are taken into account is entirely within the discretion of the European Committee of Social Rights.

Follow-up should involve dialogue with the States Parties and should associate relevant civil society organisations as well as relevant national human rights institutions and national equality bodies, in order to identify what action may be required, to ensure compliance with the obligations arising from the Charter. In addition, the Governmental Committee of the European Social Charter may propose that additional guidance or general recommendations be addressed to all Council of Europe member States.

Ad-hoc reports submitted by State Parties can be found on the European Social Charter country profile webpage.