The European Social Network (ESN), founded in 2000 from very humble beginnings, has grown into the leading international network for public social services in Europe. Over the past 25 years, ESN has brought together local public social services authorities, directors, researchers and policymakers to share knowledge, best practice and innovation for stronger, more inclusive social services across the continent.
As the independent network for local public social services, ESN now unites close to 200 member organisations in 33 countries, encompassing those who plan, finance, manage, research and deliver social services. Through flagship events such as the European Social Services Conference and the European Social Services Awards, ESN fosters learning, collaboration and recognition of transformative practice that improves lives in communities across Europe.
To celebrate this big milestone, we wanted to take some time to reflect on where we have come from, thinking about the people and the work which has shaped the organisation as it is today. You can find the outcomes of that reflection on this page.
As we look to the next 25 years of the European Social Network, we invite public authorities, professionals and partners to help us shape the next chapter of high-quality, inclusive social services in Europe.
ESN Members Stories
As part of our own reflections on the past 25 years, we ask several colleagues to make some of their own, and below you can read some of our dedicated 25 Years ESN Members Stories from current and former colleagues of the Network.
Broadening views: the benefits of European cooperation in social services
The value of a society can be measured by how it supports its most vulnerable
Keeping social services professionals united and connected: the experience of Galicia in ESN
Building bridges in social services: Zagreb’s story at the European Social Network
ESN Archive Photography
At the links below, you will find selected photography from the ESN photography archive, stretching from 2025 all the way back to the year 2000. Throughout the 25 years of ESN, it is the people in these photos who define the work of the European Social Network - professionals striving to improve the lives of others through their practice.
ESN 25 Years Timeline
