European Social Services Conference 2026

Navigating the Future of Social Services

The European Social Services Conference
Europe's Largest Policy & Practice Forum

The European Social Services Conference (ESSC) is the annual flagship event of the European Social Network (ESN), the leading network for public social services in Europe. The European Social Services Conference is the largest public social welfare policy and practice forum in Europe, and was attended by almost 700 delegates in Aarhus this year.

ESSC 2026 will be an opportunity for decision-makers in public authorities, third sector organisations, social services professionals, providers of technology solutions, and researchers to share and exchange their knowledge and experiences with peers from across Europe and other regions of the world.

Taking place in Valletta, Malta on 17-20 May 2026, the 34th edition of the European Social Services Conference (ESSC) will explore how social services can cross borders and bridge boundaries to respond to shared challenges in an increasingly interconnected world.

Call for Contributions is now open!

The 2026 European Social Services Conference will bring together leaders in social services to inspire ideas on building resilient social services systems in times of crisis. Contribute to the Conference and make your work and experience part of the discussions.

Who should apply? Are you working on social services co-creation in public authorities, universities, research centres, the industry or third sector organisations?  If you answered yes, submit your proposal for the 2026 European Social Services Conference using the button at the top of the page.

How to apply? You can submit a maximum of 2 proposals per organisation for Case Study or Workshop, Thematic Panel Discussion, Project Forum and Walking Practice Fair. Find out more about the types of sessions and the application process here.

Proposals can also be made in English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish. 

Application Deadline: 18 November 2025

Our 2026 Partners

Become a Partner

If you are working on solutions that promote integration, digital developments, and inclusive practice and wish to discuss how we can collaborate, then please contact our Development Coordinator, Francesco Capuani, by email at francesco.capuani@esn-eu.org, to discuss how your organisation can become involved.

 

At the 33rd edition of the European Social Services Conference, we learnt how relational welfare approaches on the one hand, and welfare technology on the other are major drivers of social services transformation to make them fit for the 21st century. The Conference provided the platform to address how the combination of relational approaches and technology in social services creates a powerful synergy that enhances efficiency, accessibility, customisation, trust, and empathy. 

One of the largest editions yet, the 2025 conference welcomed 670 delegates from 38 countries to Aarhus, Denmark. Visit the event website to learn more!