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A major step has been taken in updating how social security systems are coordinated across the European Union, following approval by member state ambassadors of a provisional deal negotiated with the European Parliament. The agreement brings to a close discussions that had continued for nearly ten years.
This outcome is seen as a central success of the Council of the European Union presidency currently held by Cyprus, which has prioritised social policy issues. According to an EU official, the revised framework affects millions of people, including around two million individuals who live or work across borders, and is closely linked to maintaining worker mobility within the Union.
Marinos Moushouttas stated that the new rules finally provide clear guidance on how national systems interact. He explained that citizens who relocate within the EU will find it easier to understand their entitlements, claim benefits, and access support without unnecessary complications.
He also said the changes are expected to support labour mobility, improve labour market functioning, and contribute to a more balanced and competitive European economy.
When Cyprus took over the presidency, 15 member states backed the reform effort. That number has now grown to 21 in favour of the provisional agreement. EU representatives credited this shift to sustained efforts to build cooperation between the Council, the European Parliament, and the European Commission, supported by an open negotiating process.
The updated framework modifies Regulations 883/2004 and 987/2009, which set out how national social security systems interact. These rules ensure that individuals who move within the EU do not lose their social protection rights.
Key elements of the revision cover unemployment benefits, long-term care support, access to benefits for people not currently working, family-related benefits, and provisions for posted workers or those employed in more than one member state.
Under the new approach, jobseekers who relocate to another EU country can continue receiving unemployment benefits from their previous country for up to six months, with a possible extension. In addition, individuals who have worked at least 22 consecutive weeks in another member state may qualify for unemployment benefits from the country where they were last employed, provided they meet the required conditions.
The agreement also introduces stricter monitoring and activation measures, reflecting requests from several member states for stronger oversight.
Some elements of the reform, including provisions on long-term care, family benefits, and access for economically inactive individuals, had already been settled in 2019. However, without a complete agreement, they could not be implemented.
Final approval now requires a vote in the European Parliament plenary, followed by formal adoption before the new rules take effect.
