Social Affairs
Chairman: Mr. Stelios Stavridis
Managers: Ms Ilaria Savoini & Mr Jürgen Noack
"Social aspects and competitiveness must be taken equally seriously for our societies
and economies to flourish."
José Manuel Barroso, European Commission President, 3 April 2008
Growth and jobs hold priority positions in the Commission's revamped Lisbon Strategy. As a result, a renewed social agenda (RSA) was adopted in July 2008 to strengthen the social dimension and to establish a roadmap for European social policy up to 2010.
Europe's economic growth and regulatory environment have a direct impact on the ability of commerce to create jobs. Particular RSA priorities, such as the review of the European Works Councils Directive, the management of demographic change, fighting discrimination and investing in young people, highlight their impact on competitiveness, employment and the long-term prosperity of commerce.
The commerce sector works hard to bring opportunities to employees and to enhance their prospects through training and experience, especially those who may find it difficult to enter the labour market.
The Social Affairs Committee covers EU employment and social affairs policy and is engaged in the European social dialogue for commerce.
For further information, please see also: