EESC opinion: Social agenda

EESC opinion: Social agenda

Key points:

  • The EESC welcomes the Commission communication on a renewed social agenda and considers it to be a right step towards modernising the European welfare state.
  • In the light of the major global economic and financial crisis, it is all the more important for the European Union to promote a strong social and competitive Europe.
  • Europe urgently needs modern labour market policies and strong, sustainable and employment-friendly social systems.
  • Minimum standards in employment rights should, where necessary and appropriate, be part of any social agenda.
  • Social dialogue remains one of the most important pillars of the European social model.
  • The Open Method of Coordination should be strengthened, in particular through the increased use of quantitative and qualitative targets.
  • In close cooperation with the social partners, the EU should support Member States in adapting, harmonising and monitoring the common flexicurity principles.
  • It is necessary to respond appropriately to the current ECJ rulings in connection with the posting of workers and trade union activities.
  • Where necessary and appropriate, suitable concrete measures to protect workers should be adopted as soon as possible, in which it is made clear that neither economic freedoms nor competition rules take precedence over fundamental social rights
  • To ensure access to high-quality healthcare, appropriate, clear and transparent goals should be developed and pursued with appropriate monitoring and publicity.
  • As well as providing new opportunities and increasing economic growth and competitiveness, migration also has its dark sides. In future, the Commission should also deal with these.
  • The application and implementation of existing laws is very important. A high priority must be given to putting in place effective measures for the enforcement of cross-border matters.
  • The Commission's call upon all Member States to ratify and implement the ILO Conventions classified by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) as up to date is also welcomed.