Abstract

The basic aim of the European institutions in the social field is to standardize the rights of European citizens to social assistance, but the forms, amounts and conditions for the granting of social benefits are based on the particular reality of each Member State. This article contains a thorough analysis of the European legal instruments that guarantee the right of citizens in financial difficulty to a minimum income. This addresses the key elements on which to assess the level of effectiveness and efficiency of the minimum income schemes provided by Member States. And finally, we identified the components of a decent minimum income: financial support, access to the labor market and access to quality social services. In this context, the author notes that in recent years, the European institutions have paid particular attention to issues related to ensuring a minimum subsistence income for all persons in a situation of financial vulnerability. Based on the research carried out, the author concludes that the European institutions attach particular importance to the minimum income schemes provided by the Member States. Therefore, in order to increase the effectiveness and efficiency of the fight against poverty and social exclusion, several legislative measures have been adopted in recent years aimed at modernizing income schemes to ensure a dignified life for those in need in accordance with European principles and values.