Last update: 6/8/2010.

The Integrated Guidelines consist of the Broad Economic Policy Guidelines (1-6) and the Employment Guidelines (7-10). Together, they aim to ensure that both the EU and its Member States implement structural reforms which are consistent with each other. After endorsement by the European Council and the approval of the European Parliament, the guidelines are adopted by the Council.

The integrated guidelines

• (1) ensuring the quality and the sustainability of public finances

• (2) addressing macroeconomic imbalances

• (3) reducing imbalances in the euro area

• (4) optimising support for research, development and innovation, strengthening the kowledge triangle and unleashing the potential of the digital economy

• (5) improving resource efficiency and reducing greenhouse gases

• (6) improving the business and consumer environment and modernising the industrial base in order to ensure the full functioning of the internal marke

• (7) increasing labour market participation and reducing structural unemployment

• (8) developing a skilled workforce responding to labour market needs, promoting job quality and lifelong learning

• (9) improving the performance of education and training systems at all levels and increasing participation in tertiary education

• (10) promoting social inclusion and combating poverty

DG Economic and Financial Affairs (ECFIN) strives to ensure that national structural reforms are consistent over time and have the maximum possible impact by closely monitoring implementation by the different Member States of the Integrated Guidelines, especially those related to imbalances and the quality and sustainability of public finances.