Since 1984, the OSE believes in the power of research to inform and guide positive social change. Our mission is to produce independent, critical and forward-looking analysis of social, employment and socio-ecological policies, as well as analyse the impact of European integration both at EU level and within Member States.
Our vision: a future-proof Europe where social policy is informed by rigorous research that benefits policymakers, stakeholders and citizens.
Integrity, openness and dialogue
Our values are the foundation of everything we do. They guide our work, our relationships with stakeholders, and the impact we make
We are independent and ethical
We are committed to maintaining intellectual independence and methodological rigour in our research.
We strive for scientific excellence
Our work is grounded in state-of-the-art research, and we pride ourselves on our accuracy, clarity and depth.
We promote research for social justice
We are proponents for a strong, inclusive and equitable Social Europe, attentive to the needs of vulnerable groups and future generations.
We are open and engage in dialogue
We foster open dialogue among stakeholders – academics, policymakers, trade unions, civil society – through inclusive events and accessible publications.
We are adaptable and innovative
We continuously evolve to address emerging challenges such as the digital transition, climate change and shifts in EU governance, while remaining anchored in our mission.
An engaged team of experts committed to a common cause
The OSE brings together experienced researchers in social, employment and health policies, as well as a dedicated administrative team responsible for the smooth functioning of the organisation.
What fuels us
Our strategic objectives are the cornerstone of what we do
Conduct comparative applied research
We compare national social policies and analyse the impact of EU integration on social policies across Member States and neighbouring countries.
Monitor policy developments and identify trends
Through comparative analysis, we monitor EU-level initiatives and national reforms, detecting both opportunities and risks for Social Europe.
Support evidence-based policymaking
We provide tools to EU institutions, national governments, and social partners committed to fair and sustainable policy choices.
Facilitate dialogue and debate
We bring together key actors from research, policymaking, and civil society to debate the future of social policy in Europe.
Disseminate knowledge widely
We bring together key actors from research, policymaking, and civil society to debate the future of social policy in Europe.
Contribute to major networks
We actively engage in EU-funded projects and academic collaborations, reinforcing the links between research, innovation, and policymaking.
Our governing bodies
The OSE’s overarching governance body is a Board of Directors made up of representatives from national and European trade unions, as well as academic institutions. Our General Assembly brings together a broad group of stakeholders, including representatives from national and European trade union organisations, trade union-related research institutes, academic institutions and the International Labour Organization.
Opinions, alerts and real-time insights
Stay informed about our latest editorial perspectives, event highlights and calls for participation. This is where OSE speaks out and reacts to ongoing developments.
Civil Society and the European Semester
A new OSE research paper by Patricia Scherer reveals that, although civil society is essential to the legitimacy of EU economic governance, it is structurally sidelined in the European Semester. Power imbalances, Semester fatigue and missed opportunities. Read the findings.
