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Discussion Paper

White Paper on Social Inequalities in Europe: From Early Childhood to Retirement

Findings and Recommendations from the Horizon Europe Project ‘Mapping Inequalities Through the Life Course’ (Mapineq)

This White Paper offers a concise overview of the Mapineq project main results, and how they can inform efforts to reduce social inequalities across the life course and different areas of life.
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The Horizon Europe Project 'Mapping Inequalities Through the Life Course' (Mapineq, 2022 - 2025) examined how social inequalities develop and persist across Europe. Formed by an eight-partner consortium, the project analysed how inequalities in education, employment, income, health, and housing interact throughout individuals' lives and vary across local, regional, and national contexts.

This White Paper offers a concise overview of the project’s main results, and how they can inform efforts to reduce social inequalities across the life course and different areas of life.

Drawing on extensive research, it highlights the need for both long-term investments and targeted interventions at key life stages.

Whether you’re a policymaker, educator, or concerned citizen, this paper offers clear insights and actionable recommendations for building fairer, more inclusive societies.

By Jani Erola, Daniela Vono de Vilhena, Elina Kilpi-Jakonen & The Mapineq Team.

 

Acknowledgement:

This publication is part of the Mapineq project, which has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon Europe research and innovation programme under the grant agreement No. 101061645 (www.mapineq.eu). Views and opinions expressed are however those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Research Executive Agency (REA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

Read more about the Mapineq project here and follow the project on X and LinkedIn. You can also register to receive Mapineq's bi-annual newsletter here.

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Authors of Original Article

Source

Erola, J., Vono de Vilhena, D., Kilpi-Jakonen, E. & the Mapineq Team (2025). White Paper on Social Inequalities in Europe: From Early Childhood to Retirement Findings and Recommendations from the Horizon Europe Project ‘Mapping Inequalities Through the Life Course’ (Mapineq) . Discussion Paper No. 22, Berlin: Max Planck Society/Population Europe.