Global Economic Observer (Dec 2020)
The European Pillar of Social Rights. Implementation and effects in the EU Member States
Abstract
The article focuses on the research into the European Pillar of Social Rights, as well as the challenges of applying the basic principles in the Member States, in order to identify the best measures for their implementation in the European Community. This analysis is structured on the 3 main categories, respectively: (1) the equal opportunities and access to the labour market, (2) the fair working conditions, (3) the social protection and social inclusion. The conclusions of the study will highlight the important role that the European Pillar of Social Rights has in the more efficient solution of the economic and social problems facing the EU, being a step forward towards "a better governance of social policies at Community level". The study aimed to add value through the research methodology used, based on a multidisciplinary approach. This involves analysing social policies from the perspective of accelerating the process of European integration, in order to reduce socio-economic disparities between the Member States. The research is based on the consultation of the specialized literature and of the studies and articles published by well-known specialists, on the analysis of official documents of the European institutions and the latest Eurostat data. Therefore, the European Pillar of Social Rights seeks to provide a single and coordinated response to the main challenges facing the EU: inequality, poverty, unemployment, social exclusion, economic and social disparities. How its principles will be put into practice in all Member States will influence the future of the EU architecture, as an area of “European values”, in which the social rights of all citizens are equally respected. The Member States with “critical situations” concerning the access to the labour market and social protection, including Romania, will have to step up their efforts to implement the European Commission recommendations and attract the EU funds by using examples of good practice from performers in this field.
