This year’s event entitled Invest Innovate Transform: Empowering People and Communities will explore how we can invest in efficient, effective and financially sustainable social services to empower people and communities across Europe.

Public social services are currently facing challenges such as the effects of the long economic crisis, globalisation and demographic changes that will also impact policies in the future. In such a context, public social services represent a key safety net for citizens living under difficult conditions but also a crucial actor to stimulate social investment and develop human capital.

The conference brings together over 500 international senior professionals from all levels of government, private sector companies and third sector organisations, the ESSC is a unique opportunity to learn about the latest trends in social affairs, share innovative practice and be inspired by new ideas.

This year’s programme features a superb mix of internationally renowned speakers from politics, academia and major institutions across eight plenary sessions, a record number of 28 workshops, a project forum and ample opportunities for knowledge sharing and networking.