The Social Innovation Lab 2025, held in Ljubljana, brought together cities from across Europe to share practical ways to improve children’s lives in urban environments. Discussions focused on tackling child poverty, strengthening protection systems, and supporting children’s wellbeing. Across sessions and workshops, cities showed how local measures such as inclusive education, affordable childcare, free school meals, and accessible leisure activities can reduce inequalities and improve life chances. A clear message emerged: early intervention and coordinated support across education, health, social care and communities are essential to help children thrive.
At the same time, participants highlighted that cities cannot do this alone. EU frameworks such as the European Child Guarantee and the upcoming anti-poverty strategy offer important opportunities, but their impact depends on strong local involvement, adequate funding and better coordination across levels of government. Cities shared both progress and ongoing challenges, including fragmented services, limited resources and barriers to reaching the most vulnerable families. The Lab reinforced the role of cities as places where solutions are tested and improved, and called for stronger support to scale up what works and ensure all children can grow up in safe, inclusive and supportive environment.