Unveiling the European Elections: Insights from Chloé Gallien, Head of European Affairs at Groupe SOS

What is Groupe SOS position on the European elections? 

Groupe SOS hopes that during the next European mandate there will be no decline in social and solidarity policies, as well as in the protection of fundamental rights and respect for the rule of law in Europe. 

The European elections can have a significant impact on these rights and principle. It is therefore essential to vote to ensure that these fundamental values continue to guide decisions taken at European level. Groupe SOS, perceives these elections as an opportunity to promote the social and solidarity economy as an alternative: a different, fairer economic model that integrates ecological transition, social progress and democratic renewal. 

What are the benefits for Groupe SOS and its associations of taking part in European projects and working with stakeholders in Europe? 

We are convinced that the EU is a fantastic opportunity to improve and exchange with our European counterparts. Groupe SOS Europe Department supports its organisations in developing European projects and obtaining related funding. This enables teams working in the fields to learn new skills and know-how, as well as sharing their expertise across borders. Transnational collaborations also encourage the creation of solid networks, building long-term links between partners and thus enabling an enriching exchange of ideas and practices. 

In short, European cooperation is a source of professional enrichment and progress for our employees, by offering opportunities for expansion, learning and sharing that cannot be achieved in a purely national context. 

What are you doing to ensure that the impact of Groupe SOS activities is recognised by European institutions and networks? 

Groupe SOS is actively involved with European institutions such as the European Commission, the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union. We also work in collaboration with influential European networks, such as Euclid Network and the European Federation of National Organisations Working with the Homeless (FEANTSA), as well as with various stakeholders in the social economy across Europe. 

To promote our initiatives, we regularly share Groupe SOS’ field projects and innovative solutions developed by our teams. These exchanges serve as a source of inspiration for other organisations and contribute to the development of more inclusive and effective European policies. By showcasing our projects, we aim to demonstrate the positive and tangible impact of our actions, encourage the adoption of best practice and influence policy makers to incorporate these approaches into their strategies and legislation. 

In this way, our commitment at European level is not just limited to the recognition of our work, but also extends to an ongoing effort to promote social change on a large scale, by inspiring and collaborating with other European players for greater collective impact.