European Commission

Red tape – less is more

(23/10/2009)

EU businesses could save more than €40bn a year under proposals for cutting red tape.In 2007 the commission gave itself until 2012 to reduce by 25% the annual administrative costs on business from EU legislation. Now, with the deadline still two years away, the EU is well on the way to achieving that goal and may even exceed it, according to its latest progress report. The commission estimates that the total annual burden on business from EU legislation and the resulting national laws cost companies about €124bn a year in red tape.

• Improving regulation in the EU

Financial markets must concentrate on ethical long-term investment, not reckless short-term gambling.

(26/09/2009)

"Having seen the central role played by the EU in the creation of the G20 at leaders’ level a year ago, I am particularly happy with the decisions taken today and the new permanent role of the G20," president Barroso stated at the end of the meeting in Pittsburgh. The G20 agreed to tighter coordination of our main economic policies but also to rein in exorbitant bonuses and hold international finance to account. "But we will only achieve a full and sustainable recovery if we also tackle climate change and kick-start trade, concluded President Barroso. This is a test of credibility for the G20 – failure is not an option."

• Read José Manuel Barroso’s statement [7 KB]
• Read the statement by the G20 leaders [121 KB]

European measures to enhance financial supervision

(23/09/2009)

On the eve of the opening of the G20 summit in the United States, the European Commission under the presidency of José Manuel Barroso has adopted legislative provisions aiming to reinforce financial stability throughout the EU, to ensure that the same basic technical rules are applied and enforced consistently, to identify risks in the system at an early stage, and to be able to act together far more effectively in emergency situations and in resolving disagreements among supervisors. ‘Financial markets are European and global, not only national. Their supervision must also be European and global. Today we are proposing a new European supervisory system, which has the political backing of the Member States and is based on the de Larosière report. Our aim is to protect European taxpayers from a repeat of the dark days of autumn 2008, when governments had to pour billions of euro into the banks’, said the President.

• Read the press release
• Q and A on the European Systemic Risk Board / the macro-supervision part of the package
• Q and A on the European System of Financial Supervisors

Ambitions for the G20

(17/09/2009)

"We need to return the financial system to viability. But we must show zero tolerance for any return to the "bad old ways" said president Barroso at the end of the informal meeting of EU heads of state and government held in Brussels to prepare for next week's Pittsburgh summit of the Group of 20 developed and emerging economies. "Our citizens are understandably horrified at reports of banks receiving public money paying exorbitant bonuses." EU heads of state and government also agreed to push hard for progress at the G20 in the fight against climate change. "I am worried about the lack of ambition in the negotiations" affirmed the president. He also sent a message to the developing world "if you are serious about the challenge of cutting emissions, we will be there to help, not with a blank cheque, but with a fair proposal".

• Read the speaking points [15 KB]

Overcoming the crisis: challenges and opportunities

(26/08/2009)

"The crisis poses huge challenges. It also presents us with significant opportunities. Our short-term actions must lay the basis for sustainable and equitable growth in future", said president Barroso in a speech at the annual congress of the European Economic Association in Barcelona yesterday. "I think that we have been strengthened by the crisis. We now know that, to safeguard our prosperity, we must co-ordinate our policies better and earlier in future."

• Read the speech

Summer blues

(27/07/2009)

One in three Europeans is “very concerned” about losing their job, and even more are worried their spouse or children will find themselves out of work in the months ahead. The findings, from an EU-commissioned survey conducted in June, come as no surprise. Europe is struggling to pull itself out of the deepest recession in the post-war era, with the economy likely to contract 4% this year. Monetary and fiscal stimulus efforts are expected to kick in in 2010 – but not until the economy has shed some 8.5 million jobs. "Understandably Europeans are concerned about the impact of the crisis on their jobs and families," said employment commissioner Vladimír Špidla. "That's why action has been taken at a European level since the very beginning of the crisis to limit its impact on jobs.”

• EU action to tackle the recession

Together for research

(13/07/2009)

New public-private partnerships launched to boost scientific research – long recognised as a stimulus for economic growth. Spending on research and development today will make Europe more competitive tomorrow. That’s the thinking behind EU moves to promote R&D investment as part of the recovery plan to get Europe’s economy moving again. Three new public-private partnerships (PPPs) should help. Financed 50% by the EU and 50% by industry, the PPPs will fund research on “factories of the future” for the manufacturing sector, “energy-efficient buildings” for the construction sector and “green cars” for the automotive sector.

• More information on EU research

Microfinance for Europe's unemployed

(03/07/2009)

EU proposes microfinance facility to encourage the unemployed to start their own businesses. When economists talk about microfinance, they are usually referring to tiny loans used to help people in poor countries start their own businesses. But in the midst of the worst recession in decades, microfinance has growing appeal even in powerful economies. The commission is proposing microfinancing to provide people who have lost their jobs with small loans to start their own businesses and help existing companies expand. The proposal is spelled out in the action plan for jobs. The loans would be tailored to businesses employing fewer than 10 people, which account for more than 90% of companies in the EU. They would be eligible for up to €25 000 each.

Europe - working together to shape a new financial system

(16/06/2009)

"Financial supervisors - and indeed governments - need to have shared information to enable them to act collectively and in good time, in the mutual interest and on the basis of mutual confidence. And where things do still go wrong or where there is a difference of view, we need clear and agreed mechanisms for urgent decision-making," said president Barroso at the presentation of the final report on a New Financial Architecture, by the Belgian High Level Committee chaired by Baron Alexandre Lamfalussy. President Barroso welcomed the Belgian initiative and urged heads of state and government to agree at the June European Council on the European cross-border financial supervision package proposed by the Commission. He thanked Belgian Prime Minister Herman Van Rompuy, as well as Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Didier Reynders - who both attended the event - for their support for the package.

• Read the speech
• Extracts from the speeches [03'13"]

Research: the free circulation of knowledge

(15/06/2009)

‘We have made progress on the implementation of the European Research Area (ERA) with the adoption of a common vision for ERA 2020 aiming at creating a sort of internal research market in which researchers and knowledge can circulate freely throughout the 27 Member States’ - this was the conclusion and fervent wish expressed by President Barroso in an exclusive interview for the French magazine Innovation. During the interview, the President also underlined the importance of developing education, innovation and research so that Europe can remain competitive at international level, and referred to the success of the Seventh Framework Programme for R&D, the annual budget of which doubled between 2007 and 2013. This increase will benefit ‘priority areas of actions such as the environment, energy or nanotechnologies’.

• Read the interview [35 kb]

A shared commitment to mitigate the impact of the economic crisis on employment

(03/06/2009)

Following their meeting, the Members of the Commission, presided over by José Manuel Barroso, proposed to the EU the early release of EUR 19 billion from the European Social Fund (ESF) to help victims of the economic crisis as well as the exemption of the Member States from their co-financing obligations for 2009-2010. The ESF already helps nine million people to find jobs each year. The Commission, in cooperation with international financial institutions including the European Investment Bank Group, also proposed the creation of a new micro-credit mechanism worth EUR 500 million to support new business creation. It hopes to offer training opportunities at national level to some 500 million Europeans. The objective is to unite all stakeholders – trade unions and employer organisations, Member States and the European Union – to work together to fulfil this commitment, explained President Barroso, who called upon the European Council to provide its support for this ambitious plan.

• Read the speech
• Details of measures proposed
• Frequently asked questions

Small businesses: joint efforts by EIB and Commission to keep people in jobs

(29/05/2009)

President Barroso had a fruitful meeting with Philippe Maystadt, President of the European Investment Bank (EIB), and paid tribute to the bank for the part it is playing in getting Europe's economy back on its feet. "The EIB is responding to the requests in very effective way". From October 2008 to the end of April 2009, loan signatures totalled €41.8bn – an increase of 61% over the equivalent period in the previous year. President Barroso was also delighted that the EIB will increase its lending targets for this year and next from €60 billion to €70 billion. The European Commission and the EIB are also working together to finalise a new EU loans facility to provide micro-credits for jobs in small businesses. The Commission will contribute €100 million to this.

• Read the speech
• Extracts from the press conference [03'28"]

The Commission is proposing to enhance financial surveillance in Europe

(27/05/2009)

Enhanced surveillance of cross-border financial markets is essential for ethical and economic reasons. Inspired by the report requested by President Barroso from Mr Jacques de Larosière, the Proposals adopted today aim at extensively reforming the current structure of financial committees by creating a European Systemic Risk Council (ESRC), and a European System of Financial Supervision (ESFS) composed of new European surveillance authorities. ‘The new system will help the EU and its Member States to address the problem of the accumulation of systemic risk and that of the surveillance of cross-border undertakings. I am delighted that the Member States gave their support to the De Larosière Report at the spring European Council. I now encourage EU leaders to approve the practical and carefully planned measures that we are presenting today, at the European Council in June. I would like this new structure to be in operation by 2010.’

• Read the press release
• Read the key points of the speeches [35 kb]
• Frequently Asked Questions on Financial Supervision

EU employment summit: significant step towards more and better coordinated action on employment

(07/05/2009)

"We cannot prevent this crisis from causing unemployment. But acting now can reduce job losses, and help millions of people to find new and better jobs. Acting now also means paving the way for sustainable recovery" president Barroso said at the end of a special summit in Prague dedicated to tackling the impact of the economic crisis on jobs in Europe. "EU action on employment neither starts nor stops with today's summit. But with today's summit we are telling our citizens that we want their employment to be Europe's number one objective. I call on all Member States to commit to work together to swiftly step up action on employment." The summit identified concrete actions to fight unemployment and create new jobs, including a special focus on young people. The Commission will build on the summit conclusions when formulating its input to the European Council of 18-19 June.

• Watch the statement [01'12"]
• EU Employment Summit – questions and answers
• Read the press release
• Extracts from the press conference [04'06"]
• Employment summit offers solutions to reduce unemployment
• Read the statement

Falling EU economy set to stabilise as measures take effect

(04/05/2009)

The EU is going through its worst recession since WWII. Inflation has slowed, but employment and public finances are hard hit. The situation should stabilise in 2010. The latest official economic forecast predicts the EU economy will shrink by 4% in 2009 – after growing by 0.8% in 2008. Almost all EU countries have been severely hit by the financial crisis, the sharp global downturn and, in some economies, ongoing housing market corrections. However, as fiscal and monetary measures to stimulate the economy take effect, growth is expected to resume before the end of next year (despite an overall growth forecast of -0.1% for 2010). The figures – essentially the same for the euro area and the EU as a whole – are down compared with the autumn forecast and January 2009 interim forecast.

Settling accounts

(08/04/2009)

Late payment for work performed, a perennial problem in Europe, is now hampering recovery from recession. Suppose you own a business and you’ve just finished a big job. Now you get paid, right? Wrong. The fact is it may take months before you see the first euro. Late payment is a widespread practice in much of the modern world, and the EU is no exception. A major drain on the European economy, it is the cause of 1 in 4 bankruptcies, wiping out an estimated 450 000 jobs every year. Small businesses are most vulnerable because they depend on timely receipts to maintain cash flows, especially now banks are reluctant to issue loans. Perhaps no one is more familiar with the problem than public contractors, because when it comes to not paying bills on time, governments are some of the worst offenders.

• EU action on late payment

'The solution for putting our economies back on track for growth lies in our regional territories.'

(07/04/2009)

President Barroso welcomed the Presidents of seven French regions to Berlaymont, the headquarters of the European Commission in Brussels. He reminded those present how much European Cohesion Policy is helping regions to face the crisis by encouraging investment in infrastructures, reinforcing production capacity and developing human capital. In addition, in view of the extent of the crisis, President Barroso explained that the Commission had proposed several initiatives to give regions the means to intervene – such as the simplification of operating rules for Structural Funds, additional advances of 2.5% on the budget (which corresponds, for France, to an advance of EUR 336 million) and easing the conditions for the intervention of the Globalisation Adjustment Fund.

• EU cohesion policy in France

G20 achievements - Much more ambitious than expected

(02/04/2009)

President Barroso said the London G20 summit had taken steps that were "much more ambitious than expected" to protect jobs and prosperity. A united EU was central in driving agreement: "The European mark is clear in the conclusions." Leaders promised "everything necessary" to stimulate economies. Reforms agreed included stronger oversight for hedge funds and bankers' pay and tough measures against tax havens. The summit allocated $ 850 billion extra for international bodies to help crisis-hit nations and agreed that IMF gold sales would support developing countries. World leaders earmarked $ 250 billion to support global trade, following up an EU proposal, and pledged rapid success in the Doha trade talks.

• Read the speaking points[10 kb]
• Extracts from the press conference [03'11"]

Turning our good intentions into joint action: the G20 must re-shape globalisation

(01/04/2009)

On the eve of the meeting of the G20 in London, President Barroso published an address in over thirty newspapers worldwide in which he explains the merits of the summit with a view to putting an end to the current economic and financial crisis and to preventing future crises. He also has a message for those who believe the solution is 'de-globalisation'. 'Protectionism and economic nationalism are misleading temptations that disseminate poverty and conflict. We need to introduce a set of rules at global level which enable us to control globalisation. The EU today is particularly well-placed to play a leading role. No other region of the world has as much experience as the EU in terms of agreements concluded on transnational rules and their effective implementation.'

• Read the full article [20 kb]

“We need markets to function properly again, funding jobs and investments"

(24/03/2009)

“On financial regulation, the EU wants to move the frontier further: no financial product, no institution, no market, no jurisdiction should be exempted from regulation,” president Barroso said in a debate on preparation of the G20 Summit. The debate took place in Strasbourg and was attended by the UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown. “Only in this way will confidence be restored. And confidence is key.” The EU will be united in London, coming with a joint message agreed by the 27 EU countries in last week’s European Council. The message contains a pro-active agenda on a stimulus for the world economy, and on the regulation of all financial actors, from banks and hedge funds to new rules on credit rating agencies.

• Read the speech

President Barroso hails European Council of results

(20/03/2009)

President Barroso has hailed the concrete results agreed at the Spring European Council. The European Council agreed on a coherent response to the economic, financial and employment crisis. President Barroso welcomed the three key agreements on the 5 billion euros initiative to fund energy projects and internet connection for rural communities; to double the ceiling for the Union's support facility for balance-of-payments assistance to 50 bn euro and the decision by member states to provide temporary support to IMF lending capacity in the form of a loan of a total amount of 75 bn euro for specific crisis support.

• Watch the statement [02'49"]
• Extracts from the Presidency press conference [03'16"]
• Presidency conclusions
• Read the Commission communication [134 kb]
• Read the communication annexes [124 kb]
• Read the speaking points[12 kb]

'Employment is my priority'

(17/03/2009)

In a group interview given to three French newspapers (Ouest France, La Croix and Nord-Eclair) two days before the European Spring Council, President Barroso gave an update on the European Employment Summit which will take place in Prague in May, which the Czech presidency of the EU agreed to. He also called for all the pro-European forces to take action in view of the European Parliament elections. 'The Commission will do its part, but be aware that it is everyone’s responsibility.'

• Read the interview [25 kb]

Long term challenges persist throughout the current shocks

(13/03/2009)

President Barroso discussed the Lisbon strategy at the Centre for European Reform in the framework of the presentation of the Lisbon scorecard. This year's Lisbon scorecard correctly points out that, in the long term, apathy towards reforms in the face of demography, lack of skills and anachronistic labour legislation will condemn Member States to a chronic competiveness deficit. "We are not forgetting the long term challenges", he said, clearly encouraging governments to invest in areas that are crucial to future competitiveness - infrastructure, broadband, improvement of workers’ skills. "This will increase productivity and help us pay back debts more easily".

• Read the speaking points[47 kb]
• Extracts from the launch of "The Lisbon scorecard IX " [10'11"]

Helping people make it through the crisis

(11/03/2009)

In a speech to the European Parliament on the preparation of the next European Council, president Barroso said clearly that the social impact of the crisis is his number one concern and "by far the most important test we face". He also said that Europe today has today found its strength in cohesion, in coordination, and in solidarity. "For that, we must all work closely together, and stay in close touch as the task of recovery unfolds, including of course with this Parliament," he said, adding that he is looking forward to making this a reality.

• Read the speech

Regions and cities of Europe, engines for recovery

(06/03/2009)

Invited to the European Summit of Regions and Cities in Prague, President Barroso welcomed this opportunity to celebrate the essential role of regions for Europe's people, particularly in this unprecedented situation. The Commission, he said, has proposed to support the Member States and the regions in their recovery efforts by accelerating investments in cohesion policy programmes. In our recovery plan, cohesion policy is providing considerable support for public investment by Member States and their regions, with more than 347 billion euros for 2007-2013. In this perspective, he urged the representatives of regional and local authorities committed here in Prague, to focus on “high-return” measures, such as investing in energy efficiency and investing in industries for the future.

• Read the speech
• Extracts from the official speeches [05'58"]

Driving European recovery

(04/03/2009)

The Commission has adopted its contribution to the Spring European Council (19-20 March). President Barroso said, "We must send a strong signal to citizens, businesses and the global community that there is a way out of the economic crisis. Europe has the unity, the confidence and the determination to win this battle." The substantial communication proposes rebuilding confidence and lending in the banking sector, repairing financial markets, supporting people through the crisis and building a global response at the G20 summit in April.

• Read the press release
• Read the speech
• Read the Commission communication [134 kb]
• Read the communication annexes [124 kb]
• Extracts from the press conference [03'07"]

EU support to tackle crisis in automotive sector plus guidance on the treatment of impaired assets in the EU banking sector

(25/02/2009)

The Commission is working hard to address each of the strands of the current financial crisis. Today the Commission had an important exchange of views with social partners and also took important decisions on the automobile sector and impaired assets in the banking sector. The Commission considers that a common European approach is now needed to deal with the treatment of impaired assets, to make sure that foreseeable losses are disclosed and properly handled, and that banks can use their capital to resume their normal function of lending to the economy rather than fearing they will need this capital to cushion against possible losses. On cars, the Commission supports a proactive approach to supporting industry in its efforts to withstand the crisis, soften negative effects and ensure long-term competitiveness.

• Press release on impaired assets in the EU banking sector
• Press release on EU support to fight the crisis in the automotive sector
• Background on the situation in the European car industry

The future of European financial regulation and supervision

(25/02/2009)

“The Commission has today received the report of the high level group on financial supervision. Now it is for the Commission to assess and act. Next week on 4 March the Commission will give a first preliminary assessment and response to the main conclusions of the report. Workers and families across Europe and the world have suffered the consequences of hubris in financial markets. The Commission is determined that this must not happen again".

• Read the president’s speaking points
• Read the report [641 kb]
• Read a summary of the report [88 kb]

Working hand in hand with employers and trade unions to tackle the economic crisis

(25/02/2009)

The European Commission continued its work to implement the European Economic Recovery Plan with a special meeting with the representatives of trade unions and employers at the European level. It showed a wide consensus that not only did the internal market and the Recovery Plan provide the right springboard for tackling the crisis and taking action on jobs in Europe, but also that further measures would have to be put in place at EU level. ‘To arrest the downturn, to limit the loss of jobs and business shutdowns, and to put Europe back on the road to growth and jobs, we need a partnership,’ said President Barroso.

• Read the press release

Meeting with the German chancellor

(19/02/2009)

"If we work together and not against each other, we can ensure that we emerge in better shape, ready to take full advantage of the upturn. We must use the strength of a European approach, the strength of coordination among our 27-member European Union, the strength of our Internal Market, of the Euro," said president Barroso, pleased to see that Germany and Angela Merkel fully share the same view. In their meeting, which was hosted by the German chancellor in Berlin, they also discussed the implementation of the European Economic Recovery Plan, including the money available to promote new European initiatives in terms of energy interconnections, carbon capture and storage, and other important European projects.

• Read the speech
• Extracts from the press briefing [04'12"]

Increasing coordination on a European scale in the interest of all citizens

(11/02/2009)

José Manuel Barroso spoke with Mirek Topolanek after the meeting of Commissioners, which the Czech Prime Minister was invited to. During the joint press conference, the President explained that the best way to tackle the economic crisis is certainly not through retrenching into our own groups, but rather through a coordinated European approach between the 27 States. In view of the G20 Summit at the beginning of April in London and the Spring European Council meeting, a series of initiatives have been announced to encourage an economic recovery. These include an informal meeting between the Heads of State and Government on 1 March in Brussels and a Jobs and Social Summit in Prague in May.

• Read the speech
• Extracts from the press conference [03'47"]

Specific national recommendations to open the way for a lasting recovery

(28/01/2009)

The EUR 200 billion fiscal stimulus proposed by the European Commission and approved by the Council is of major importance as it will provide the crucial short-term energy boost our economies need to fight the crisis. However, the European Union needs a comprehensive medium-term fitness plan. In this regard, President Barroso explained that ‘Member States must agree and implement the much-needed structural reforms set out in today's recommendations by the College of Commissioners’.

• Further information
• The European Economic Recovery Plan

Higher marks for EU innovation

(22/01/2009)

EU improves its research performance. Europe is catching up with its main economic rivals – the US and Japan – in innovation performance, according to an EU study. Switzerland is the leader in innovation, followed by Sweden, Finland, Germany, Denmark and the UK. All six countries have scores well above those of other European countries and of the EU as a whole. EU newcomers had some of the highest rates of improvement – especially Cyprus, Romania and Bulgaria – even though their performances remain below the EU average.

EU economy hit hard by global downturn

(19/01/2009)

Commission cuts economic growth forecast as scale of financial crisis and ensuing global downturn become apparent. The Commission estimates that economic growth fell to about 1% in 2008 in both the EU and the eurozone (down from just below 3% in 2007). The latest forecast projects that real GDP will contract by almost 2% in both regions in 2009, before growing again by about 0.5% in 2010. These figures are lower than the autumn forecast. With the EU economy expected to shed some 3.5m jobs this year, unemployment is set to rise. The rate is forecast to reach 8¾% in the EU in 2009 (9¼% in the eurozone), with a further increase in 2010.

• More on financial and economic crisis
• EU economic forecast

Slovakia, the 16th Member State to adopt euro

(23/12/2008)

With Slovakia’s adoption of the euro on 1 January 2009, 328.6 million EU citizens, out of a total population of 499.7 million, will use the same currency. “I am really happy to welcome Slovakia,” said President Barroso, also reiterating that the single currency has not only contributed to the creation of 16 million jobs, but also helped to keep inflation and interest rates at levels not expected for such a crisis period. “The euro protects enterprises against risks linked to exchange rates, which struck enterprises hard during preceding periods of recession".

• More information on Slovakia’s accession to the eurozone
• Practical disposition for the future enlargement of the eurozone
• National Slovakia website on the adoption of the euro
• More information on the euro and its advantages
• Read the press release
• Watch the video [3'57"]

Getting the European economy out of the economic crisis

(16/12/2008)

The Recovery Plan presented on Tuesday following the meeting of the College of Commissioners is based on two main elements that reinforce each other. Firstly, short-term measures to boost demand, maintain employment and contribute to restoring confidence. Next, “intelligent investments” to encourage growth and ensure sustainable prosperity. ‘If Europe acts with resolution to implement this Recovery Plan, we can get back on the path of sustainable growth and pay back short-term loans granted by public authorities. If we don’t act now, we may get into a vicious circle of recession, leading to a fall in purchasing power and fiscal revenues, an increase in unemployment and ever-increasing budget deficits,’ warned President Barroso.

• Read the press release
• FAQs
• Full text of the Recovery Plan [84 kb]

Meeting with G. Brown and N.Sarkozy in London

(08/12/2008)

President Barroso visited London to meet business leaders to discuss the economic and financial crisis with Prime Minister Brown and French President Sarkozy. President Barroso described the financial crisis as the first crises of globalisation and called for strong coordination at European and international levels.

• Extracts from the summit [4'48"]
• Read the speaking points of the press conference [58 kb]

Visit to Luxembourg

(04/12/2008)

As soon as he arrived in the Luxembourg capital, President Barroso held a meeting with Prime Minister JC Juncker on the current economic and institutional situation. He then made a speech to the Chamber of Deputies before speaking with the Commission for Foreign Affairs. During these various meetings, President Barroso underlined the importance of the contacts that the Commission has not only with governments, but also with national parliaments. This action forms part of the framework for political dialogue that the President has strived for and instituted since 2006.

• Read the speech
• See the video [2'04"]

A comprehensive plan to drive Europe's recovery from the current economic crisis

(26/11/2008)

The Commission presented a Recovery Plan based on short-term measures to boost demand, save jobs and help restore confidence, and also on "smart investment" to yield higher growth and sustainable prosperity in the longer-term. The Plan calls for a timely, targeted and temporary fiscal stimulus in 2009-2010 of €200bn, or 1.5% of EU GDP, with every Member State taking major measures good for its own citizens and good for the rest of Europe. "If Europe acts decisively to implement this Recovery Plan, we can get back on a path of sustainable growth and pay back short-term government borrowing. If we do not act now, we risk a vicious recessionary cycle of falling purchasing power and tax revenues, rising unemployment and ever wider budget deficits", warned president Barroso.

• Read the communication [128 kb]
• Read the speech
• Read the press release
• Read the FAQ
• Extracts from the joint press briefing [3'48"]

We must be bold

(25/11/2008)

"We are living through the first financial crisis in the age of globalisation" explained President Barroso at a Jean Monnet conference. More than ever before, he said, the world needs Europe and its shared, mutually supportive vision. Indeed, "in Europe, we have known for a long time that it is in our interests to pull together". Thus, it is no surprise that "the European Council guidelines served as a basis for the G20 discussions". He announced that the European recovery plan will include measures to safeguard jobs and to protect spending power, but he also warned: "The economic and financial management of the crisis must not be to the detriment of the other global challenges" like climate change.

• Read the speech

Europe must remain a key player

(18/11/2008)

During a debate at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, President Barroso presented the European Commission’s work programme for 2009. He also drew conclusions from the Washington summit, expressing the political realities to which Europe must respond: taking on the challenge of urgency, whilst pursuing with determination the groundwork already undertaken. 'This is a crucial time for European politics. Perhaps even a turning point. Europe is full of great expectations. They can be met in the best way possible if we continue to take the initiative and go forward, united, into the future.'

• Read the speech

Opening up the labour market

(18/11/2008)

Report finds restrictions on movement of workers from new EU member countries no longer needed.
When the EU expanded in 2004, some of the 15 existing EU countries were worried they would be flooded by workers from eastern and central Europe.So they were allowed to temporarily restrict access to their labour markets, making it harder for newcomers to work there. The same restrictions were imposed on Bulgaria and Romania when they joined in 2007.Now it seems those fears were unfounded. According to a new EU report, many more workers have immigrated from outside the bloc than have moved from eastern to western Europe. What’s more, with the economic downturn reducing demand for labour, such labour flows are expected to decline.

Strengthening regulations on credit rating agencies

(12/11/2008)

The College of Commissioners, chaired by President Barroso, has adopted a proposal for a Regulation on credit rating agencies in order to restore confidence in the markets in this sector. This proposal forms part of a package of initiatives to deal with the financial crisis. It adds to the Commission’s proposals on Solvency II, the Capital Requirements Directive, Deposit Guarantee Schemes and accounting in particular. The new rules are designed to ensure high quality credit ratings which are not tainted by the conflicts of interest which are inherent to the ratings business.

• Read the press release
• Perguntas frequentes
• Credit crunch – the EU at work

An ambitious calendar of work for 2009

(05/11/2008)

The European Commission adopted its 2009 Legislative and Work Programme, which announces the main initiatives it intends to present next year. In 2009, the Commission will follow up on the initiatives launched in recent weeks addressing the financial crisis and set out a European framework to address the economic downturn. At the same time, "we will seek to consolidate the achievements of the last four years by maintaining the focus on delivering results for European citizens and businesses," said president Barroso. The priorities are structured around four pillars: Growth and Jobs, Climate Change and Sustainable Europe, International Issues and the Budget Review.

• Read the press release
• For further details

The European economy – a major concern

(21/10/2008)

In a speech to the European Parliament at a plenary session in Strasbourg, President Barroso took stock of the latest European Council meeting, which he described as the 'high point of the efforts to overcome the economic crisis in Europe which are unprecedented in their intensity’. He then presented a roadmap for the coming weeks, focused on ending the financial crisis, reforming the international financial system, minimising the impact of the financial crisis and creating the necessary conditions to restore growth and create jobs.

• Read the speech

Inspiring future generations

(02/10/2008)

President Barroso delivered a keynote speech at the European Round Table of Industrialists (ERT) and gave his full support to ERT initiatives to encourage partnership between industry and education, and to support the promotion of maths, science and technology in Europe. Estimates, he said, tell us we can expect almost 20 million new high skilled jobs by 2020, and 13 million medium-level jobs.

• Read the speech

Fostering excellence in European Innovation

(15/09/2008)

Accompanied by Hungarian Prime Minister Ferenc Gyurcsány and Commissioner Jan Figel’, President Barroso attended the inaugural meeting of the Governing Board of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) in Budapest. The EIT is a European Commission initiative based on a new concept of pooling the best resources within scientific, business and academic communities throughout Europe with the goal of building highly integrated partnerships and easing the free flow of knowledge between actors of innovation.

• Read the full press release
• More information
• EIT Website
• Read the full speech

Economic slowdown sharper than expected

(10/09/2008)

In an increasingly difficult global economy, prospects for economic growth in the EU worsen and inflation has not yet started to ease off.

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  • EU growth – slower but resilient
  • EU economic growth to slow, says interim report

The European Institute of Innovation and Technology will soon become a reality

(30/07/2008)

The Regulation on the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) came into force in April 2008, and in June Budapest was chosen to host its headquarters. Now, the first EIT Governing Board has been officially appointed by decision of the European Commission.

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• EIT

Regional growth closes gaps in income and employment

(18/06/2008)

Poorer regions catching up, profiting from expansion of fast-growing sectors

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Better prospects for researchers

(28/05/2008)

Planned partnership between EU countries should make Europe a more attractive place for researchers.

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Solid employment growth for the second year, but early signs of a cooling off in labour markets

(19/05/2008)

An analysis of recent data released by the European Commission shows a still solid overall performance in the EU labour market, although the pace of improvement appears to be slowing.

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EU reaches out to promote flexicurity approach in the Member States

(19/05/2008)

The European Commission today launched an initiative to help put the EU's flexicurity approach - balancing flexibility in the job market with employment security for workers - into practice at national level.

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€350bn for economic growth and jobs across Europe

(15/05/2008)

Radical shift in priorities as 450 programmes come under the spotlight for EU regional funding.

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EU growth - slower but resilient

(28/04/2008)

Slower economic growth and higher inflation expected in the face of persisting financial turmoil and global cooling.

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Your qualification working throughout the EU

(23/04/2008)

From Dublin to Helsinki - your degree, diploma or high school graduation will be instantly recognisable thanks to a new system.

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Smart taxes work for you

(07/04/2008)

The right tax systems boost economic growth, create jobs and keep us in work.

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Commission proposes 2009 to become European year of creativity and innovation

(31/03/2008)

Europe needs to boost its capacity for creativity and innovation for both social and economic reasons. That is why the Commission has today adopted a proposal to declare 2009 the European year of creativity and innovation. The decision will be taken later this year by the Council and the European Parliament.

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EU growth and jobs strategy paying off

(17/03/2008)

Strategy to modernise the European economy starting to deliver - and international climate change agreement a priority, say leaders at spring summit (13-14 March).

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Equality between men and women - a key element of the Lisbon strategy

(12/03/2008)

President Barroso has lunched with members of the European Parliament's committee on women's rights and gender equality in Strasbourg as part of International Women's Day. Gender equality is a value common to all EU Member States and is one of the strategic objectives that the committee set itself at the outset of its mandate. Pay gaps separating men and women are still too wide, at around 15%, in a Union of 27, with noticeable differences among the member states themselves.

EIT becomes a reality

(11/03/2008)

Following the vote on the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) by the European Parliament, president Barroso said: "This has paved the way for the immediate signature of the EIT regulation by the Council. Already by the end of 2009, it should be beginning its groundbreaking work on such important themes as climate change, renewable energies and the next generation of information and communication technology."

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Creating a culture of optimism in Europe

(10/03/2008)

The president spoke at the launch of Europe's economic reform centre, which assesses progress towards the implementation of the Lisbon growth and jobs strategy. "We must not tell young people that globalisation will destroy Europe. It won't. We must tell them that there are huge opportunities out there and that they must grab them with both hands. We must create a culture of optimism in Europe" said Commission president Barroso.

• Watch the video [3'08"]

Ten new fast track actions to reduce administrative burdens for companies

(10/03/2008)

The European Commission has today presented its list of ten new fast track actions to reduce administrative burdens for companies, in order to enhance economic growth.

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Lisbon growth and jobs strategy: continuing on the right track

(04/03/2008)

"I very much welcome the European growth and jobs monitor's main message: that despite the decade long defeatism of the cynics - Lisbon is working" said president Barroso at the launch of the 2008 edition of the European growth and jobs monitor. This study aims to measure the performance of Europe's 14 largest countries in implementing the Lisbon growth and jobs strategy. It is produced by the Lisbon Council, a Brussels-based think tank.

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• Extracts from the keynote address [3'15"]

Raising the skills bar

(27/02/2008)

Expanding job market requires more skilled workers, says EU report.

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Reforms are paying off, but don't forget the most vulnerable - EU report

(25/02/2008)

Social protection reforms and active inclusion policies have visibly contributed to higher growth and more jobs in Europe over the past year. Still, more needs to be done to ensure that these benefits reach those at the margins of society and improve social cohesion, says a Commission report to be discussed by Employment and Social Affairs Ministers on 29 February.

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Rosy outlook for EU job market

(22/02/2008)

Millions of new jobs and lower unemployment expected as national reforms begin to take effect, but young people are still losing out.

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EU economic growth to slow, says interim report

(21/02/2008)

Economic growth in the bloc expected to slow to 2% this year - down 0.4 percentage points - as world financial markets grapple with ongoing financial turmoil.

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The earlier we move, the more opportunity we will have to use our skills and technology

(21/02/2008)

Competitiveness depends on innovation reminded President Barroso in a speech given at the European Business Summit in Brussels. "The need to improve environmental performance often triggers innovation, which in turn leads to first-mover advantages. If the European Union leads the field in low-carbon-intensive technologies, new export opportunities will open up for it. A good example is wind energy, where the EU is the world leader."

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No rational reason to fear recession

(12/02/2008)

Ahead of his participation in the inter-parliamentary meeting on the Lisbon Growth and Jobs Strategy which followed his participation in the Eurogroup, president Barroso said "The stability, credibility and strength of the Euro and the increased resilience of our economies, thanks in part to reforms under the Lisbon Strategy, are important reasons for confidence in Europe's ability to - with vigilance! - come through the current stormy economic weather.

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Cutting down red tape: crucial for the economy

(11/02/2008)

Following the Commission's report on the first effects of the new move to reduce administrative burdens in the EU that was released on 30 January 2008, president Barroso and enterprise and industry commissioner Günter Verheugen published an article in a number of European newspapers. In it, they stress that "Brussels" is not synonymous with a permanent influx of new and useless laws devised to commplicate the lives of citizens, as some would claim. "A new culture is in the making at the Commission, where the necessity of each new legal proposal is being checked before the proposal itself is examined".

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Commission acts to close gaps in employment equality rules

(31/01/2008)

The Commission has today sent reasoned opinions to 10 Member States to fully implement EU rules prohibiting discrimination in employment and occupation on the grounds of religion and belief, age, disability and sexual orientation.

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Cutting red tape - EU businesses save millions

(30/01/2008)

Reports show Commission efforts to lighten the administrative burden are paying off

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A new economy to safeguard the climate

(29/01/2008)

In an article published by many newspapers across Europe, José Manuel Barroso speaks of the raft of measures recently put forward to fight climate change and promote renewable energies. He underlines that while the fight against climate change is crucial in safeguarding the future of our Planet, it also offers new possibilities for Europe in economic terms. "The time has come to seize them with confidence, with both hands" Mr Barroso.

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Decent pensions for all

(22/01/2008)

In some EU countries, if you change jobs or go and work abroad, you risk losing pension benefits.

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Building a global low-carbon economy

(23/01/2008)

Commission tables ambitious proposals to fight climate change and promote renewable energy in line with EU commitments

The EU agreed on ambitious carbon cuts last year. Now it needs to follow through with action to meet the targets – and benefit the economy too. Hence the proposals unveiled on 23 January.

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New study results support EU pension initiative to aid worker mobility

(22/01/2008)

Supplementary pension schemes continue to pose obstacles to mobility for workers across Europe according to two new independent studies, presented by the European Commission today. The studies support the case for a Europe-wide initiative to improve people's access to supplementary pension rights when changing jobs or working in another EU country. The Commission's proposal for a directive on the issue – revised in October 2007 – forms part of the work programme for the Slovenian EU Presidency.

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Slovenian EU presidency: the next steps

(20/12/2007)

Slovenia makes concrete policy reform for citizens a central priority

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Commission proposal to limit CO2 emissions from cars

(19/12/2007)

The college of commissioners chaired by president Barroso has put forward legislation to reduce average CO2 emissions of new passenger cars to 120 grams per kilometre by 2012. The proposed legislation is the cornerstone of the EU's strategy to improve the fuel economy of cars, which account for about 12% of the EU's carbon emissions. "This proposal demonstrates that the EU is committed to being a world leader in cutting CO2 emissions and the development of a low carbon economy. At the same time, we are committed to promote the competitiveness of our industry and its global technological leadership," said Mr Barroso.

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Two new executive agencies bolster European research

(14/12/2007)

Today sees the creation of two agencies to manage research projects funded by the European Union budget. The "European Research Council Executive Agency" will support the implementation of the Ideas Programme of the 7th Research Framework Programme (FP7), which supports frontier research. It will manage about €7 billion. The "Research Executive Agency" will administer the Marie Curie fellowships schemes, research for the benefit of SMEs and parts of the Space and Security research themes. It will manage research funding of €6.5b and provide evaluation and support services to all other parts of FP7.

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Significant results for first Lisbon programme (2005-2008)

(11/12/2007)

Three years after it was relaunched in 2005, the Lisbon growth and jobs strategy is working, but the EU must reform further to succeed in a globalised age says key commission report, presented today by President Barroso in Strasbourg. "The Lisbon Strategy is helping position Europe and European citizens to succeed in the age of globalisation. It has given Europe a common, pragmatic economic agenda, fully respecting national differences. But complacency would be fatal to Europe's prospects of shaping globalisation."

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• Questions and answers
• Extracts from the press conference [3'26"]

Energy the key to EU's future

(27/11/2007)

With Kyoto finally showing progress, EU must make clear energy choices without relinquishing its economic and environmental objectives.

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European market to open up world of opportunities

(20/11/2007)

Consumers and small businesses set to gain from EU's latest package of single market initiatives.

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The European interest: succeeding in the age of globalisation

(14/11/2007)

President was delighted that the European parliament had decided to hold a debate on globalisation, an issue central to this generation of Europeans. "Today's debate and the draft motion for a resolution show how the institutions are united in their understanding of what is at stake. The idea of a declaration on globalisation at the December European council meeting could be a welcome way to consolidate this consensus".

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Employment increase of 3 million in one year, despite moderate slowdown in economic growth

(14/11/2007)

An analysis of recent Eurostat figures shows ongoing positive developments in the European labour market. The continuing strong employment growth in Spain and the recent labour market recovery in Germany and Poland have been the main drivers behind the good overall EU performance.

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EU on track for 2008

(13/11/2007)

Introducing the commission's legislative and work programme for 2008 at the European parliament, president Barroso announced: "we have every reason to be optimistic". After the negotiations on the Treaty of Lisbon, there is a real determination to get down to business, and at the same time the European economic agenda has brought results for growth and jobs. "For 2008, initiatives will focus on five areas which are of direct relevance to everyone in Europe: growth and jobs; sustainable Europe; managing migration; putting the citizen first and Europe as a world partner" Mr Barroso added.

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Boosting the competitiveness of businesses

(31/10/2007)

President Barroso spoke of the current policy guidelines for technological innovation in Europe with the presidents of the COTEC Foundations of Italy, Spain and Portugal. COTEC's mission is to support business innovation. Last year, the commission laid out its understanding of the priorities for innovation policy in its communication "Putting knowledge into practice: a broad-based strategy for the EU". Ten points of particularly high political priority were singled out and are being implemented.

2008: the way ahead

(24/10/2007)

EU to concentrate next year on delivering core policies for globalisation agenda

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EU invites in skilled labour from outside

(23/10/2007)

More attractive entry and residence conditions and equal rights for highly skilled workers from outside the EU as commission acts to boost competitiveness and rebalance its ageing population.

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EU leaders and social partners discuss how the Reform Treaty and Lisbon Strategy can boost labour markets

(18/10/2007)

Commission President José Manuel Barroso and Portuguese Prime Minister José Sócrates - current President of the European Council - today discussed with high-level employers' and workers' representatives reform of the EU Treaties and the future of the EU's Growth and Jobs Strategy.

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Celebrating 10 years of the European employment strategy: common objectives for more and better jobs

(08/10/2007)

Today sees the tenth anniversary of the EU's main policy tool for creating improved work for all. The European employment strategy (EES) – which establishes common EU objectives and priorities, and ensures coordination of employment policies across the EU – has helped raise the EU employment rate from 60.7% to 64.3% since 1997 and cut long term unemployment from 5% to 3.6%. The anniversary is being marked by a major conference organised by the European Commission and the Portuguese EU Presidency, a follow-up to the successful event on flexicurity last month.

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Equipping Europe for a globalised world

(04/10/2007)

European confidence on the up as the EU's growth and jobs strategy helps us deal with the challenges of globalisation.

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The European interest: succeeding in the age of globalisation

(03/10/2007)

The EU's raison d'être for the 21st century is crystal clear: to equip Europe for a globalised world. "We need a confident, open, reforming Europe, actively promoting the European interest. European leaders now need to maintain the vision and redouble their ambition," said the commission president. The discussion paper adopted today by the college for the Lisbon informal summit (18-19/10) makes clear that the Lisbon strategy for growth and jobs is at the heart of Europe's response to globalisation.

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EU pushes investment in youth

Not enough jobs for young people but, at the same time, not enough people to fill the jobs we have – the EU calls for an end to the paradox, insisting that everyone must have a stake in society.

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A stronger Union for a better world

Portugal has ambitious aims on its agenda as it takes the political helm of the EU in July – a new Treaty, preparations for the next round of the Lisbon (growth and jobs) strategy; justice, freedom and security in an enlarged area without borders (Schengen), and relations with the rest of the world, especially Africa.

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Flexicurity: getting more people into good jobs

Common principles of flexicurity are essential in order to promote more and better jobs by combining flexibility and security for workers and companies. In line with the EU's Lisbon Strategy for Growth and Jobs, the common principles of flexicurity proposed by the Commission aim to ensure that more Europeans get the most out of today's fast-changing global economy.

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EU's ageing population at heart of new government expert group

A high level group of government experts met for the first time in Brussels to discuss demography. The group will support the Commission in developing policies adapted to the new reality of Europe's ageing population and shrinking workforce.

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Support for families key to reaching Lisbon targets

Entitled "Promoting solidarity between the generations", a Commission communication, aims to help Member States meet the demography challenge. It examines how Europeans can achieve a better work-life balance. It also looks at how best to support families, so they can have the number of children they desire.

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Open society

President Barroso participated in the opening session of the Economia e Società Aperta forum in Milan, organised by the Bocconi University – renowned in Italy for economics - and the newspaper Il Corriere della Sera. He drew attention to the importance of the European dimension in facing most of the economic and social challenges of our times. The forum involves a large number of representatives from socio-economic circles from Milan and the whole of Italy, including two old members of the European Commission, Italian PM Romano Prodi and Bocconi University President, Professor Mario Monti.

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Europeans must avoid false choice between policy and institutional reform

At the Institute of Directors in London, Commission President Barroso stated: "To have strong, effective institutions, they require updating and improving. That is what the Constitutional Treaty intended to achieve; and that is why the political focus has switched back to the institutional settlement". He concluded by saying: "Europe offers no real surprises, no hidden plots. The more each country puts into it, the more it gets out. The best way to promote national interests in the EU is to invest in Europe as an opportunity, not hide from it as a threat".

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The speed of others

"Let's take a look at what's happening elsewhere, all around us. The speed of others, particularly that of the emerging economic powers, will soon convince us of our need to accelerate, and to 'think big'," said Commission President Barroso at the 5th European Business Summit in Brussels.

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Europe on the right track for more growth and jobs, EU and social partners agree

At today's Tripartite Social Summit, Commission President Barroso and German Chancellor Merkel – current President of the European Council – discussed with high-level employers' and workers' representatives progress on the EU's jobs and growth goals. They were joined by the Portuguese and Slovene Prime Ministers – future Presidents of the European Council – and Vladimír Špidla, Commissioner for Employment, Social Affairs and Equal Opportunities. The debate focused on promoting knowledge and innovation and making labour markets more adaptable through flexicurity – combining flexibility on the labour market with employment security of workers – and better regulation.

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Alive and Kicking: the renewed Lisbon Strategy is starting to pay off

Attending the launch of the Lisbon Scorecard in Brussels, President Barroso listed the achievements of the renewed Lisbon Strategy. The next stages that must be undertaken were mentioned as were the tasks and challenges that lie ahead in the current context of globalisation.

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Securing Europe's future through research

Research is being brought to the fore as the key to securing Europe's economic and social future under the EU's new Research Framework Programme for 2007-2013. A celebratory event to mark the launch of this major new programme - which is to fund research worth €53.2bn - took place in Brussels on 7 March.

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Commission launches fundamental review of the Single Market

In its Communication of 10 May 2006 on "A citizen's agenda: delivering results for Europe", the Commission proposed to launch a fundamental review of the single market. The report adopted today sets out a vision for the single market of the 21st century. It highlights the achievements of the single market to date and the need to adapt it in order to deliver further concrete results for the benefits of citizens and businesses, and to reinforce its contribution to economic growth and social cohesion in an era of globalisation. The report will be followed by a full review of the single market and proposals for further action in the autumn of 2007.

Interim report to the 2007 Spring European Council [69 Kb]

The Europe of Knowledge post 2010

President Barroso gave a speech this afternoon at the official opening of the Netherlands House of Education and Research. The Neth-ER was set up to offer a multi-purpose service to a variety of Dutch client organisations from academic, research-based and business communities. President Barroso wished to emphasise the Commission's role in supporting Member States' efforts to meet the Lisbon goals by strengthening cross-border partnerships in the fields of knowledge and innovation.

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Shared approach is improving social cohesion in Europe

European cooperation is helping EU Member States improve social cohesion policies and spending, says a Commission report to be discussed by employment ministers on 22 February. The 2007 'Joint Report on Social Protection and Inclusion' highlights priorities and progress made in the areas of social inclusion, pensions, healthcare and long-term care – but underlines that big challenges remain. Member States are stepping up efforts to tackle child poverty, promote 'active inclusion' of the most disadvantaged in society, ensure adequate and sustainable pensions as well as equal access to health and long-term care. Once adopted by the Council, the report will go to the Spring Summit of EU leaders on 8-9 March as the social contribution to the jobs and growth package.

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EU reform strategy delivering jobs, says new report

Unemployment is down and employment on the rise according to the Joint Employment Report, to be adopted by employment ministers on 22 February. The Commission report - which assesses Member States' implementation of their national reform programmes in the area of employment – is upbeat. However, it underlines the need for more rigorous reforms, in particular to better balance flexibility with security in the job market – the flexicurity approach. The Commission has also put forward specific national recommendations to most Member States.

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A year of delivery - annual growth and jobs report points to progress on economic reform

The EU is becoming more dynamic and competitive thanks to economic reforms which are yielding results. This is the main message to come out of the Commission's annual report on economic reform across Europe. Given the current economic upturn, the focus now should be on further reforms to secure a prosperous and environmentally sustainable future for Europe.

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2006: A boost for workers' mobility, but challenges lie ahead

Lille, France: The European Year of Workers' Mobility concludes today with a major event to sum up the achievements of the past twelve months and chart the challenges that still lie ahead. With 2,000 events across Europe, the campaign has raised peoples' awareness of their rights to work in another EU country and how to exercise them, reinforced tools to help them find a job abroad, and highlighted the remaining obstacles to a genuine European job market. The winners of the 2006 European Mobility Awards – which recognise individuals, businesses or institutions that have contributed to geographic or job-to-job mobility during the European Year – will also be announced. As well as presenting the main findings of the Year, the event will examine how to follow them up in 2007.

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Europe, a new idea for tomorrow

After visiting the HEC European Institute, one of the best European business schools, guest speaker President Barroso talked with students for about 90 minutes. He emphasized that Europe has reached a new level of maturity where it can no longer avoid debate on common foreign policy and defence. "The new dimensions of the enlarged Union give us an increased legitimacy to contribute to the emerging need for a new world "governance"".

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An innovation-friendly, modern Europe

Why has Europe placed such importance on innovation? "Because it is the key to our continued competitiveness", said President Barroso today at the European Technology Platforms seminar. "To maintain a high quality of life, we must maintain our economies' competitiveness. Creating a knowledge society is essential to a durable, competitive Europe. Innovation is the best way to do this."

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New employment and social programme aims for PROGRESS

Today sees the launch of PROGRESS – the EU's new integrated programme for employment and social solidarity. With a budget of over EUR 700 million for 2007-2013, it will support the goals set out in the Social Agenda and contribute to the Union's wider strategy for jobs and growth. The programme will fund studies, mutual learning, campaigns to raise awareness and support for key actors across five broad areas: employment, social inclusion, working conditions, equality between women and men and tackling discrimination. It also aims to streamline EU spending on social and employment policies while improving their visibility and coherence as a whole.

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What kind of Social Europe does a truly Global Europe need?

Invited to provide the keynote address at a Policy Network symposium on the new social reality of Europe, President Barroso said that that Europe needs a modern social vision to accompany our drive for open markets. He argued that "Every European citizen should have the possibility to fulfil his or her potential to the full. Deny that possibility, and society as a whole is diminished. An interim report will be prepared for the Spring European Council, and this will set the scene for the development of a European agenda for opportunity, access and solidarity.

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Better regulation package

President Barroso and Vice-President Verheugen have today announced an ambitious set of new initiatives following the first strategic review of the better regulation initiative. The Commission proposes joint action with member states to increase EU GDP by 1.5% through cutting red tape. The aim is to save 150 billion euros by 2012. The Commission announces a fresh set of proposals to simplify legislation and withdraw pending proposals. The Commission also calls for more efforts from member states and recommends that future Commission's start its mandate by reviewing all pending legislation.

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Unlocking Europe's growth potential

Present at The Economist Business Roundtable in Brussels, President Barroso speaking to businessmen and women said: "What we share are common values and ambitions, such as sustainable development, solidarity and cohesion, equal opportunities and the fight against all forms of discrimination, universal access to health and education, quality of life and quality in work. And to achieve that, we need a competitive and open Europe, a Europe of buoyant markets and healthy trading relations, which can deliver full employment, high social and environmental standards, and high levels of investment in research and education to prepare for the future. Europe must reform and modernise its policies to preserve its values and to deliver prosperity and solidarity. This is the kind of Europe we want.

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Moving up a gear for Growth and Jobs: Progress on implementing the new Lisbon Strategy

Addressing seminar participants, President Barroso said: The two clear decisions we took in reorienting the Lisbon Strategy in early 2005 are paying off. The first was to focus on growth and jobs. The second was to establish a firmer and more clearly defined partnership between the Commission and Member States. That partnership is based on simplified governance and on a more integrated approach. Macro-economic, micro-economic and employment policy are no longer in separate compartments. This seminar is part of that partnership.

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Growth and jobs: national coordinators meet in Lisbon to boost innovation

What policy can help Europe become a world-class innovation performer? To answer this question, Commission President José Manuel Barroso met with national coordinators responsible for implementing the Growth and Jobs strategy during a seminar aimed at discussing success strategies.

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Regulation to drive growth and jobs

Fielding questions at a debate, entitled "Does Europe really mean business? which was organised by the Financial Times, Mr Barroso stated: "Better Regulation has become one of the key engines driving our Growth and Jobs strategy. This has had important consequences for the way in which we approach the matter.

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Barroso addresses MEDEF on the quest for growth and employment

On Tuesday 29 August, the President of the European Commission, José Manuel Barroso, was in the Paris region to open the Summer Academy of the Mouvement des Entreprises de France (MEDEF) with MEDEF President Laurence Parisot. Taking up the Summer Academy theme of "Reconciling the irreconcilable", Mr Barroso tackled the question of reconciling flexibility and security; competitiveness and economic and social cohesion; national and world dimensions; and diversity and unity in Europe. His conclusion was that, in a globalised world, Europe was the place par excellence for compromise solutions.

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Spring Council: more jobs and increased energy security

At this year's Spring European Council, which took place in Brussels on 23 and 24 March, European Heads of State and Government reaffirmed their commitment to boost Europe's employment levels, and backed the drafting of a common energy policy.

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2007: "Boosting trust through action

Commission President, José Manuel Barroso presented the Annual Policy Strategy (APS) for 2007 to members of the European Parliament on 22 March. The APS sets out the goals for what will be another key year for the European Union. The aim is to prepare the ground for future decisions and actions, as well as to look forward and build consensus on priority actions for 2007.

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Europe's leaders to deliver progressive reforms not protectionism, says Barroso

EU leaders must at this week's Spring European Council in Brussels seize the opportunity to put Europe firmly on track towards growth and jobs and turn away from protectionism. That is the clear message that European Commission President José Manuel Barroso has delivered two days ahead of the summit. The European Council will have on the table the Commission's Annual Progress Report on the Lisbon Strategy, the partnership between the EU and Member States for growth and more and better jobs. The Report calls for clear decisions and unequivocal commitments in four priority action areas: investment in education, research and innovation; freeing up SMEs; employment policies to get people into work; and guaranteeing a secure and sustainable energy supply.

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More Europe where it matters!

Speaking at the European Parliament's plenary session on 15 March, Mr Barroso declared: "I am pleased that we now have 25 National Reform Programmes in place. They set out how each individual Member State, within the specific national context, intends to implement the agreed Guidelines for Growth and Jobs. But let me be clear: this is only a first step. Everyone knows that reports do not create jobs. That is why, this year, it is time to turn words into action. Over the coming months the Commission will work closely with Member States to assist and monitor the implementation of their National Programmes […]

The National Reform Programmes must now be implemented. The challenge of globalisation must be met by more Europe, not less Europe. The internal market must be further developed with a new European Energy Policy. Free movement of people and services, based on social inclusion and a determined effort to ensure high standards, are essential cornerstones. More investment in research and development means promoting the EIT. In short – more commitment to Europe will bring more prosperity and freedom to our citizens.

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Lisbon process: employment, social security and environment

At the social platform conference on employment, social security and environmental potential of the Lisbon Process and the role of the Commission, Commission President Barroso commented: "We have no choice – given the global and demographic pressures we face, we must act now to achieve the sustainable jobs, the security and the quality of the environment that people want. This includes modernising our economic and social structures to stimulate growth and create jobs. What social model could tolerate 19 million unemployed? That is why the European Union has mustered all its political will and is now moving from words to deeds […]

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Slovenia: meeting the challenge of globalisation

In an address to the Slovenian National Assembly in Ljubljana on 1 March, President Barroso declared: "If we want to preserve the values of peace, freedom, democracy, solidarity and cohesion, to which we all subscribe – from Ljubljana to Dublin and from Lisbon to Stockholm – we need to be able to demonstrate to our citizens that we can meet the challenge of globalisation, and harness it in such a way as to increase their economic and social wellbeing. And we have what it takes to do so.

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2006 European Year of Workers' Mobility

Present at the European Year of Workers' Mobility's launch conference, President Barroso defined the concept of "flexicurity: "This concept of "flexicurity" is a way of ensuring that employers and workers feel they have the flexibility, but also the security they need. Mobility contributes to employment security precisely by allowing people to develop and improve their skills. It is a fact of life that people may experience spells of unemployment, but by improving their skills, they will be in a position to find a new job as quickly as possible.

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Parliaments on the road to Lisbon

Meeting with national parliaments in Brussels (European Parliament), José Manuel Barroso had a debate on Lisbon strategy for growth and employment one year after its relaunch. On this occasion, he declared: I am sure you will agree with me that we have come a long way in one year. Each link in the chain of our partnership has made an energetic and committed contribution to this satisfying result. This is a source of encouragement for the short and medium-term future. But today we are getting to the heart of the matter, which is concrete results. We have our backs to the wall, and the time has come to keep our promises and shift into a higher gear. We will commit ourselves to doing just that in 2006 and the years that lie ahead, because we mean to win the growth and employment battle!

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"Time to move up a gear" - Commission President Barroso presents Annual Progress Report on Growth and Jobs

The European Commission has today published its new Annual Progress Report on the Lisbon Strategy, the partnership between the EU and Member States for growth and more and better jobs. The Annual Progress Report is designed to reinforce momentum and force the pace of delivery. There are three main elements in the Progress Report. First, the Report provides an analysis of the 25 new National Reform Programmes submitted by Member States in October 2005. Second, it identifies the strengths in different national programmes with a view to promoting the exchange of good ideas. Third, it highlights areas where there are shortcomings and proposes concrete action at EU and national level to deal with them. Four priority action areas are identified: investment in education, research and innovation; freeing up SMEs; employment policies to get people into work; and guaranteeing a secure and sustainable energy supply. For each of these areas, the Commission's Spring Report makes clear proposals for European leaders to commit to when they meet at the March Summit in Brussels and to implement by 2007.

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