Social Rights

At the High-Level Conference on Social Rights in Chisinau, Council of Europe member States reaffirmed their dedication to safeguarding and expanding the European Social Charter.

France took an important step by extending the Charter to its overseas territories, including Guadeloupe, French Guiana, Martinique, Mayotte, Réunion, Saint-Martin, Saint-Barthélemy, and Saint-Pierre-and-Miquelon—ensuring that all rights already applied in metropolitan France now fully cover these territories.

Albania advanced children’s and youth protections by accepting Article 17 of the Revised Charter, reinforcing social, legal, and economic safeguards, while signaling its intention to adopt Articles 9 and 10 on vocational guidance and training.

Malta broadened its commitment by accepting 13 additional provisions of the Revised Charter, covering workers’ rights (including migrant workers) and protection against poverty and social exclusion.

Andorra, Belgium, and Lithuania reported progress toward ratifying further Charter articles ( Article 28, Article 27§3 and Article 30) addressing workers’ rights, equal opportunities, and social protection—demonstrating a shared push for stronger social safeguards.

Croatia confirmed it will soon ratify the Revised Charter, marking a decisive move toward an advanced and comprehensive social protection.

Meanwhile, Norway extended its acceptance to include workplace health and safety (Article 3§1) and equal opportunities for employees with family responsibilities (Article 27§3).

Together, these steps highlight a clear, collective resolve across Europe: to continually strengthen social rights and ensure protection for all citizens.