This study examines the family-policy challenges currently facing European nations, with a particular focus on demographic decline, fertility, parental choice, economic security, and the respective roles of national governments and the European Union. Through a comparative analysis of ten Member States, the publication explores how different combinations of family benefits, taxation, maternity and paternity leave, childcare provision, housing support, healthcare, and other social measures can help families form, raise children, and contribute to long-term demographic renewal.

Drawing on examples from Finland, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Sweden, Denmark, Spain, Hungary, France, Poland, and Italy, the study highlights the contrast between models centred primarily on public services and labour-market participation and those placing greater emphasis on direct financial support, family taxation, housing policy, and parental care within the home. It concludes with a set of policy recommendations aimed at strengthening families’ economic security, preserving genuine parental freedom, recognising the complementary roles of motherhood and fatherhood, supporting home ownership and family formation, promoting demographic renewal, and safeguarding Member States’ primary responsibility for family law and family policy.