This year marks 30 years since the adoption of the Collective Complaints System of the European Social Charter (ESC) — an innovation of the Council of Europe that enabled social partners and accredited civil society organisations to collectively defend social rights at the European level.

Over the years, the collective complaints procedure has resulted in a significant body of case-law developed by the European Committee of Social Rights (ECSR), shaping the interpretation and implementation of social rights across Europe, including in relation to:

• The right to housing and protection against poverty and social exclusion
• The prohibition of discrimination and the promotion of equality
• The rights of persons with disabilities
• The protection of children and young people
• Fair working conditions and trade union rights

We are proud that the Marangopoulos Foundation for Human Rights (MFHR) case (No. 30/2005) is recognised among the landmark decisions affirming that health and decent working conditions are fundamental human rights.

Watch the related video: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/social-rights-at-the-council-of-europe_health-health-health2025-activity-7384190064563531776-9ohi?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAADlvjyAB1xl_2gBs9mXWtChOO3U9IIFYFL4

Learn more about the case law of the ECSR: https://rm.coe.int/digest-ecsr-prems-106522-web-en/1680a95dbd

We continue our efforts to promote the effective implementation of the Social Charter in practice.
The MFHR will soon launch a series of activities — beginning with an interview with Jean-Michel Belorgey, former President of the ECSR and rapporteur in the MFHR v. Greece case.