ESAN is the spokeperson of the social sector in Europe vis a vis the European decision-makers.

In accordance with its philanthropic and scientific objective, ESAN encourages the conception and realisation of a coherent social policy in Europe based on the respect of human rights, the charter of fundamental rights of the European Union, the International Convention of Children's Rights, the freedom of conscience and solidarity.

ESAN actively attends the many meetings, debates and conferences organised by the EU institutions, where the civil society is invited, as the spokeperson of the workers and citizens it represents.

ESAN takes part in a large variety of committees and expert commissions set up within the EU institutions, such as the European Economic and Social Committee and the Employment and Social Affairs Commission of the European Parliament.

ESAN is a member of the Social Platform, whilst being one of its founder as well, which brings together 40 networks of the social field to promote and better co-ordinate social action in Europe. Together with this social Platform, ESAN takes part in the bi-annual meetings with the EU Commission where different issues of the European social policy are tackled.