PES Manifesto

New Social Europe - how do we do it?

Published Monday, November 12, 2007 at 15:27
by Editor (995 views and 0 comments)

Jesús Caldera, Spanish Labour Minister has made a major speech on the Spanish Socialist Government’s social policies and strengthening the European Social Model, against a backdrop of intensifying political debate in the run-up to next year’s Spanish general elections.

Speaking at a meeting of the Socialist Group in the European Parliament last week, Caldera argued that pro-active social policies should be regarded as an investment, not a cost, and that it was fundamental that we defend the European social model.

Caldera outlined six key points:

1. Reaching full employment through pro-active economic and social policies agreed with the full involvement of businesses, trade unions and civil society. 24 agreements have been signed in Spain since 2004.

2. Fighting discrimination against women and enabling women to work. Spanish socialists brought in legislation on equality with massive public support but against stiff right-wing opposition from the Popular Party.

3. Raising the minimum wage in order to make work more attractive. Spanish socialists have raised it by €200 since taking office, and will raise it by another €200 if re-elected next year.

4. Establishing a universal right to care services for dependents. a new law will now enter into force in Spain to provide services for the elderly and disabled, which is expected to create between 300,000 and 500,000 new jobs in Spain).

5. Supporting families and making work and family life compatible. Spanish socialists have now introduced a grant of €2,500 for every newborn or adopted child since July 2007 and have committed to establish universal access to child care for those under 3 years of age if re-elected next year.

6. Developing a progressive immigration policy and integrating immigrants into our societies.

These issues have been key features of the PES’ debate on the New Social Europe. The EU has many instruments to help member states develop pro-active social policies, for example, the EU Structural Funds, EU labour law and promoting agreements between European businesses and trade unions. Which of Jesús Caldera’s policies do you think are most important for strengthening Social Europe?

Tags: elderly, equality, immigration, wages, welfare