The European Observatory on the Social Situation and Demography

The European Observatory on the Social Situation and Demography consists of four multi-disciplinary networks of independent experts established for the European Commission in 2005. Its aim is to analyse social and demographic trends and to assist the Commission in its duty to report on the social situation.

The Observatory produces an overview of the social and demographic situation as well as research notes and shorter policy briefs on specific issues of high policy relevance. The main contribution of the observatory are the monitoring reports.

The findings of the four networks cover:

• Demography (coordinated by NIDI)

The network monitors and reports on demographic trends, including developments in fertility, mortality and migration and analyses the policy implications of population developments throughout the life cycle phase for economic growth, quality of life, human resources development, the labour market, social protection, migration and family/ household structures.

• Social Inclusion & Income Distribution (coordinated by Applica)

The network monitors and reports on trends in income distribution and social inclusion, i.e. the overall inclusiveness of European society. It monitors the situation regarding income and wealth, the impact of tax/benefit systems, the access to services, questions related to poverty and population groups particularly at risk of exclusion.

• Social Capital (coordinated by the London School of Economics)

The network monitors and reports on trends in social capital and social participation across the Union. In particular it reports on developments in social capital, which refers to matters such as trust in society and its institutions, participation in formal and informal networks and social norms favouring collaborative action. The network activities will also make a contribution on social governance as an element in economic and social performance.

• Health Status & Living Conditions (coordinated by the London School of Economics)

The network monitors trends in health status and living conditions and analyses key determinants of health and living conditions across the enlarged Union. It also contributes to the prospective analysis of the key drivers of supply and demand for health and long term care and the implications for care systems.

Source: European Commission