As part of the 50th anniversary events of the European Centre, our three research teams — Employment and Labour Mobility, Health and Care, and Social Protection and Inclusion — have each prepared a discussion paper. The second discussion paper, “Caring Societies: The Future of Long-Term Care”, written by the Health and Care team, is now available.

This discussion paper explores key challenges in long-term care (LTC), including rising care needs, workforce shortages, and the struggles of informal carers. It reviews policy responses, from funding reforms to person-centred care and digital innovations, while highlighting the need for better support for carers.

Grounded in the vision of a “caring society,” the paper calls for integrated LTC systems that ensure equitable access and improve quality of life for all.