In a way, we have all became prisoners during these "polypandemic" times – prisoners of our fragility, our fears, our hopes…

After all, the coronavirus has sparked multiple pandemics that are not only occurring simultaneously but are also reinforcing each other in their detrimental effects.

From this perspective, the May 2021 Porto Social Summit marks a courageous step forward by the European institutions and European social partners.

Now, we have a strong roadmap that should quickly guide Member States and the EU towards major structural reforms, productive investment, growth, competitiveness, employment and greater well-being for EU citizens.

There is no social dimension without a solid economic foundation. Competitiveness and higher productivity, and health and safety based on skills and knowledge are the key to maintaining the well-being of European societies. Economic growth and a well-functioning internal market are prerequisites for strengthening the EU's social dimension. Now is the time to reinforce the strengths of our European social market economy system while removing its weaknesses.

Our Europe is and always has been social. Our social market economy is a global beacon – admired by many, envied by some. There is a wide-ranging social acquis framework which, whilst laying down founding principles, guides, complements and coordinates Member States' social legislation and policies.

When it comes to implementing the European Pillar of Social Rights (EPSR), the Action Plan presented by the Commission provides useful guidance, including in the areas of employment, skills, health and social protection.

Any initiative or measure included in the Action Plan must be taken at the right level, keeping in mind and fully respecting the different competences, powers and clearly defined roles the EU, Member States and social partners have as regards employment and social policy.

This means strictly respecting the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality, the different socio-economic environments and the diversity of national systems, including the role and autonomy of social partners.

I particularly welcome the fact that the Porto Declaration and the Action Plan focus on jobs and skills. Competitive sustainability is at the heart of Europe's social market economy as stated in the Action Plan's introduction. A strong and resilient economy, based on implementing sound economic policies across Europe and on unleashing the productivity potential of a skilled innovative workforce, is the only foundation for a truly inclusive and social dimension in Europe.

The green and digital transitions will require more investment in education, vocational training, lifelong learning, upskilling and reskilling, i.e. an improved and pragmatic approach to education and skilling.

From the SOC section's perspective, the political priorities and the action plan for this year are in line with the Porto Summit's conclusions. We are committed to continuing working hard and delivering the necessary opinions on behalf of the social partners and civil society organisations. The EESC has to enhance its proactive role in order to defend and preserve the EU's values.

If anyone needed another reason why EU Member States should coordinate measures at EU level more durably and deeply in order to face crises, just think of the consequences of isolated measures in a "polypandemic" context. If not in the name of European integration, there should at least be a sense that nations would not be able to handle this crisis any better on their own.

In a way, we have all became prisoners during these "polypandemic" times – prisoners of our fragility, our fears, our hopes…

We have to escape now, out of respect for the legacy of our ancestors, and for the next generation.

 

Laurenţiu Plosceanu

SOC section president