To meet its objectives, ESAN runs different kinds of activities mainly either lobbying and/or exchange and co-operation activities between its members. However, all are based on values that all the members share and try to promote as best as they can.

Lobbying activities

ESAN promotes fundamental rights, access to rights, expression and participation of all citizens, the development of partnerships and civil dialogue, the development of a more human and caring Europe.
To do this lobbying ESAN takes part in the European Union debates, in Brussels, within the European Social Platform, of which ESAN is a founding member, the European Commission, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Employment and Social Affairs committee of the European Parliament. ESAN raises awareness on European issues and makes the opinions of its members known at the European level, by exchanging information, organising seminars, and/or releasing public statements.
Alongside, ESAN enjoys a participatory status with the Council of Europe, in Strasbourg. Being a member of the Conference of INGOs, it takes part in the different thematic working groups on social issues, aiming at putting its members' opinions forward.

Exchange and co-operation activities

Action is a common feature of all ESAN members. Therefore one of ESAN objectives is to promote co-operation between them so that they get to know each other, understand how valuable their action is and share their expertise with others. Mutual understanding and joint effort are the keys to achieve any progress in the development of a Social Europe.

ESAN is a tool for its members, providing useful information on available EU funding support for European projects, a reliable network of potential European partners, and logistical help with grant applications.