This exploratory opinion responds to a request made by the Polish Presidency. One of the key messages is that the number of high quality jobs needs to be increased. If we succeed to use the untapped employment reserves in all age brackets, many other issues - for instance the long term funding of the pension systems - will be solved. If the real retirement age is to be raised then it is necessary to ensure that people can work longer. The opinion lists a package of measures to make working conditions favourable for older people.
Download — EESC opinion: Demographic trends and the labour market
In a democratic society everybody is affected by collective decisions and must therefore be able to influence and participate in those decisions. Democracy in the European multicultural cities of the 21st Century must be improved through the participation of residents whose rights of political participation are restricted: residents from non-EU countries. The EESC proposes that, in order to encourage integration of immigrants and a better governance, Europe's municipal and regional authorities set up consultative councils, forums and platforms so that civil society organisations with a focus on migration can participate in and be consulted on integration policies.
Download — EESC opinion: Cooperation in integrating immigrants
