ABOUT US
The Coalition promotes a balanced vision of Europe, where the Freedom to Move is complemented by the Freedom to Stay.
Emphasised in Letta report, it calls for a revitalised Single Market that strengthens economic, social and territorial cohesion.
In that context, addressing structural disparities between regions - including unequal access to high-quality services of general interest - is essential for the EU competitiveness and the very capacity of all to live, work and contribute in the territories that they call "home".
In today’s Europe, mobility is often a necessity, not a choice. When people lack access to quality jobs, healthcare, education, transport, housing or digital connectivity in their own region, they have no real alternative but to move. This weakens communities, drains rural and disadvantaged areas of talent and investment, and deepens territorial inequalities.
WHY IT MATTERS?
OUR GOALS
1
Freedom to Stay - a core European objective
Make the “freedom to stay” a core European objective, alongside freedom of movement, supporting territorial cohesion and equal opportunities
2
Effective access to conditions that make staying a real choice
Ensure access to high-quality, affordable, and resilient services of general interest (SGIs) across all regions as a foundation for economic security, social inclusion, and trust in the European project.
3
SGIs as practical enablers
Recognise SGIs as a key driver of competitiveness, enabling businesses to operate, invest, and innovate across all regions
4
Stable and predictable investing
Position access to high-quality and affordable SGIs as a strategic investment in Europe’s economic and social model
5
Systematic approach
Align EU policies, funding, and monitoring frameworks to enable place-based solutions and track territorial disparities
By aligning the Single Market with territorial attractiveness and access to essential services, the Coalition aims to ensure that freedom of movement truly includes the freedom to stay.
PARTNERS
The Freedom to Stay initiative is supported by partners from across Europe, including members of the SGIs Network.
The SGIs Network brings together associations representing providers and employers of Services of General Interest (SGIs) and public services.
Its members share core principles: SGIs are a cornerstone of the EU Social Model; they play a central role in ensuring citizens’ quality of life while supporting sustainable economic growth; and they strengthen EU competitiveness by balancing the economic and social dimensions of the Single Market.