PERSPECTIVE ECONOMY AND FINANCE BOOSTING SOCIAL EUROPE IN CHALLENGING TIMES Pathways to boost the European eco-social model at the start of the new EU legislature Amandine Crespy February 2025 A narrow focus on competi­tiveness can be regressive from a social and environ­mental standpoint. This briefing identifies three dimensions to intensify political work geared towards pro­gressive goals: articulate an alternative concept for a pros­perous economy that works for all, strengthening socio­economic governance and advocate for new eco-social instruments. Funds in the next EU long-term budget should increase support for eco-social policies and ap­ply eco-social conditionalities.