The social investment package (SIP)

The Social Investment Package (SIP) is DG Employment’s main social inclusion contribution to Europe 2020¹. Adopted by the Commission on 20^th February 2013, plans for its implementation were discussed at a SIP conference in Leuven on 2/3 May 2013.

SIP is series of eight papers; a Commission Communication on Social Investment; a Commission Recommendation Investing in Children: Breaking the Cycle of Disadvantage; six staff working documents providing background on active inclusion, long-term care, homelessness, health, demographic trends change and social investment. SIP aims at better coordinating and boosting EU Funds to deliver on inclusive growth through a combined use of what is called ESI (European Structural Funds and Investment Funds)². A mid 2013 SIP policy guidance document is expected to explain this new architecture. SIP does not include new resources and expects member states to primarily resource social investment. 25% of EU cohesion funds will be devoted to SIP but it is less clear how this will break down across various aspects of SIP.

SIP relies on existing social architecture and funding mechanisms for ESI, including the E2020 social targets, the Open Method of Co-ordination, knowledge banks, data strategies and stakeholder consultation.