The EU has established the year 2020 as the target by when 20 million people should be brought out of poverty and social exclusion. This pledge by EU leaders followed the alarming statistic showing that there were more than 120 million people at risk of poverty or social exclusion in Europe. 

The meeting of the Chairpersons of the Committees on Social Affairs will bring together chairpersons of the relevant parliamentary committees to discuss the issue of poverty and social exclusion/inclusion in light of the prevailing situation in Europe. The meeting will not only evaluate what Europe has achieved, but also where it is heading and how to get there. 

​​​​​​​​​During the sessions the Chairpersons will have the opportunity to exchange best practices that have helped fight poverty and social exclusion in their respective countries and possibly serve as an inspiration to fellow parliamentarians.​