Rising cost of living harms fundamental rights of EU citizens, says report

Brussels – 11.06.2026: The European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) has published its annual report, examining the effects of rising living costs on the fundamental rights of EU citizens. According to the report, higher living costs in many member states have led to increased social inequality, which is particularly detrimental to vulnerable population groups. This development makes access to basic services more difficult and harms the general well-being of citizens.

Another key theme in the report is the increase in online hate crime. The FRA finds that the spread of hate speech and discriminatory content on the internet has increased significantly in recent years. This development poses a serious threat to freedom of expression and social cohesion. The agency therefore calls for strengthened measures to combat online hate crime and to promote respectful dialogue in the digital space.

The report also addresses the challenges in integrating foreign workers. Despite various initiatives, many migrants remain in precarious working conditions and have limited access to social rights. The FRA emphasizes the need to review integration strategies and ensure that all workers, regardless of their origin, receive equal rights and opportunities.

With regard to living costs, the FRA recommends that EU member states take measures to strengthen citizens’ social rights. This includes, among other things, raising the minimum wage to at least 60% of the national average wage and introducing price caps for basic foodstuffs. These steps should help promote social justice and mitigate the negative effects of rising living costs.

The agency stresses the importance of an integrated approach that includes both preventive and reactive measures to effectively address fundamental rights challenges. It calls on EU institutions and member states to take the report’s recommendations seriously and to take concrete steps to improve living conditions and social integration.

Finally, the FRA highlights the role of civil society and social partners in implementing the proposed measures. Close cooperation between governments, NGOs and the business community is crucial to creating an inclusive and fair society in which the fundamental rights of all citizens are respected and promoted.

The FRA’s report serves as an important basis for political debate and decision-making at EU level and in the member states. It provides a detailed overview of the current challenges in the field of fundamental rights and offers practical recommendations for addressing them.

The European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights will continue its work in the future to ensure the respect and promotion of fundamental rights in the EU and to contribute to a just and inclusive society.