The expectation is that the explicit targets will increase accountability and stimulate public debate and engagement. Their existence will add a new dynamic to the effectiveness of policy-making processes by imposing pressure on politicians and policymakers to deliver against the targets. Moreover, by including quantifiable targets for poverty reduction, the EU Heads of State and Government have both underlined the importance of social policy goals to the future well-being of Europe and given new momentum to the fight against poverty

Walker, 2011, p.1

On the 17 June 2010 the European Council adopted the final targets of the Europe 2020 Strategy. This strategy is to form the road map for the future of Europe establishing how we should move forward in attempting to deal with both the current crises and also in ensuring a sustainable and inclusive Europe for the future.

The Strategy outlines five headline targets which should guide member states actions, in areas relating to employment, research and development, meeting climate change objectives, improving education outcomes and the reduction of poverty in a bid to promote social inclusion. Critically this strategy has for the first time seen agreement in regard to targets aimed at combating poverty and social exclusion. It is not without its critics with some arguing that it fails to address

The social inequalities and divergences currently at the heart of the EU. None the less the setting of a headline target in regard to fighting poverty and social exclusion is to be welcomed.