EESC opinion: Guidelines for Member States' employment policies

EESC opinion: Guidelines for Member States' employment policies

Key points

  • Article 128(2) of the Treaty requires that the validity of the current Employment Guidelines for 2009 be confirmed by a Council decision, following consultation with the European Parliament, the Committee of the Regions and the EESC.
  • The EESC endorses the proposal that the validity of the Employment Guidelines for 2008-2010 be confirmed for 2009.
  • There needs to be a much stronger emphasis on the integration of young people into the labour market and a continued emphasis on combating discrimination.

  • The transition to the knowledge economy requires a much more rigorous and focused approach to vocational training and lifelong learning. It is important that there be more consistency in integrating investment in research, development and innovation.

  • The economic crisis will lead to higher unemployment and lower employment rates and in other ways make it more difficult for the EU to achieve the goals laid down in the Employment Guidelines.
  • It is important that the Member States give priority to the guidelines which are key to employment and growth, namely (1) implementing employment policies aimed at achieving full employment, improving quality and productivity at work, and strengthening social and territorial cohesion; (2) ensuring inclusive labour markets, enhancing work attractiveness, and making work pay for job seekers, including disadvantaged people and the inactive; and (3) expanding and improving investment in human capital.