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European Social Services Conference 2027 starts in:
Dates 15 – 18 June 2027 4 days of learning & exchange
Location Vitoria-Gasteiz Basque Country, Spain
Organised by ESN European Social Network
Communities that care,
systems that work
The 2027 theme places people at the heart of European social services, exploring how resilient communities and effective public systems can build a more inclusive future together.
About ESSC
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.
ESSC is a unique gathering where decision-makers, practitioners, researchers and innovators come together to shape the future of social services across the continent.
ESSC 2026 brought together professionals from public authorities, third sector organisations, technology providers and academia to share and exchange knowledge with peers from across Europe and other regions of the world.
The largest public social welfare policy and practice forum in Europe and an essential annual gathering for anyone shaping the future of social services.
Previous Edition
ESSC 2026 — Record-Breaking
Valletta, Malta
ESSC 2026 in Valletta, Malta set a new benchmark being the largest and most international edition in the conference's history, with an unparalleled diversity of voices from across the globe.
950+
Delegates Attended
The largest ESSC ever — a historic milestone for the European social services community
40+
Countries Represented
A truly pan-European gathering welcoming voices and expertise from across the globe
#1
Forum in Europe
Europe's premier public social welfare policy and practice event
ESSC 2026 — Key Policy Discussions
Watch the highlights from Valletta, Malta
Who Attends
Built for Social Services Leaders
ESSC brings together the full spectrum of professionals shaping social policy and practice across Europe.
Public Authorities
Decision-makers and senior managers from local, regional and national public social service organisations.
Third Sector Organisations
Non-profit leaders and voluntary organisations working on the frontlines of social care delivery.
Social Services Professionals
Practitioners and frontline professionals who deliver social care and welfare services across Europe.
Technology Providers
Innovators and companies building digital solutions to transform social service delivery and outcomes.
Researchers & Academics
Evidence producers and policy analysts informing the evolution of European social welfare systems.
Policy Makers
European, national and regional policy architects driving reform and shaping the social services agenda.
Venue & Location
Vitoria-Gasteiz Basque Country, Spain
The Basque Capital, renowned for its quality of life and innovative governance, is the perfect setting for a Conference exploring the future of communities and social systems.
15 – 18 June 2027 Save the date
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