EU leaders and social partners discuss competitiveness ahead of the EUCO |
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| How to improve conditions for productive investment and quality jobs in Europe? This crucial question was the focus of discussion between the European social partners and European Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen ahead of the European Council meeting on 17-18 October 2024. |
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| The European Council meeting addresses the competitiveness challenges in the light of the Letta and Draghi reports. “The next 18 months will be crucial to give clear signals to European companies and foreign investors. Meeting Europe’s substantial investment needs requires first and foremost improving the EU attractiveness as a location for private investment”– emphasised President Fredrik Persson. He added that companies are drowning in complexity, and over-regulation stifles technological development. |
| “A strong economy is essential for safeguarding our European way of life. If well designed, employment and social policies can enhance Europe’s competitiveness and productivity” – Persson underlined, presenting our new paper “Priorities for the EU’s social dimension 2024-2029”. This publication outlines five priorities that will help reverse the decline in EU’s global competitiveness: facilitate labour mobility, complete the Single Market, expand labour market participation, equip workers with future-proofed skills, and attract skilled workers from third countries. For more insights, read our paper. |
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How to turn Europe into an SME superpower |
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 | | To advocate for policies that truly support SMEs, we brought our SME Roadshow to Berlin for its fourth edition on 15 October. Co-organised with the Confederation of German Employers’ Associations (BDA) and supported by the Federation of German Industries (BDI), the event featured high-profile speakers, including a video address from Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament, and Michael Kellner, German Parliamentary State Secretary and Commissioner for SMEs. Fabrice Le Saché, Chair of our Entrepreneurship & SME Committee, highlighted the urgent need for better regulation, easier access to finance, and ensuring the green transition empowers SMEs to thrive. Check out our proposals. |
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"We welcome the European Commission’s proposal to postpone the implementation of the EU Regulation on Deforestation-Free Products by 12 months. European companies are fully committed to fighting deforestation, but extending the implementation period is crucial to ensure that all entities involved are fully prepared." Our statement on the EU Regulation on Deforestation-Free Products, published on 16 October. Read the full statement. |
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Latest position papers and letters |
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Priorities for the EU's social dimension 2024-2029
16 October
Read our position paper. |
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Message to the European Council meeting on 17-18 October 2024
15 October
Read our letter. |
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How to turn Europe into an SME superpower during the next EU cycle
15 October
Read our position paper. |
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Annual sustainable growth strategy 2025: consultation of European social partners - Employers' views
10 October
Read our position paper. |
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