A look back at 2025 with Europe’s leading network for social services
In 2025, the European Social Network continued to strengthen its impact across Europe through collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to inclusive social services.
From Aarhus, Denmark, where the 33rd edition of the European Social Services Conference was held, to Madrid, Spain, where 27,000 votes were cast during the 7th European Social Services Awards, this past year has been full of milestones.
We also brought together partners in Tallinn, Estonia, to develop a Crisis Management Framework designed to address the multifaceted challenges posed by the various crises social services have faced over recent years. In Brussels, Belgium, we also met to discuss the European Framework on Quality in Social Services and how it can be used at different levels to ensure that people have access to high-quality social services.
2025 also marked ESN’s 25th anniversary. Founded in 2000 from humble beginnings, the network has grown into the leading international body 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 we move forward, we remain committed to supporting communities, empowering the social services workforce, and promoting accessible, community-based care for all.
2025 IN NUMBERS
186 Members in 32 Countries
ESN organised 13 Events
ESN spoke at 56 Events
496 Participants at EC Co-Funded Work Programme Events
1,897 Publication Downloads
24,000 News Subscribers
66,500 Website Users
European Social Services Awards
27,000 Votes Cast
72 Shortlisted Projects
135 Submitted Projects from 25 Countries
European Social Services Conference
24 Speakers
113 Presenters
45 Sessions
670 Delegates from 38 Countries
Click below to read the Annual Review 2025.