Europe in 2025
The model of decisive, reliable and transparent governance
Policy Recommendations
We are beginning to track our Vision 2025 starting on 15 January 2010.
Secure full implementation of the Europe 2020 Strategy by:
This overall assessment is based on the following four recommendations.
Clearly distinguishing short term goals for completion during the term of office of the new European Commission, and long-term goals for completion beyond 2015.
ERT Comment
The Commission's Work Programme for 2010 is in place but there is no mid-term programme outlining targets for achievement by the end of the current Commission. (last updated 01/06/10)
Ensuring that all actors are committed to the achievement of the objectives
Ensuring that all actors are committed to the achievement of the objectives and have the necessary implementation powers enabling them to guarantee timely delivery of the Europe 2020 Strategy.
ERT Comment
Assessment depends on the national target setting. It is too early to assess this fully. (last updated 01/06/10)
Taking flanking measures to build trust
Taking flanking measures to build trust, in particular by putting in place policies to address re-training and education, and ensuring a continuous dialogue between institutions, industry and civil society.
ERT Comment
The Europe 2020 Strategy incorporates the existing 'New Skills for New Jobs' as a flagship initiative. Implementation of this agenda is crucial. (last updated 01/06/10)
Engaging the business community in an open and constructive dialogue
Engaging the business community in an open and constructive dialogue to identify, as early as possible, expected trends and requirements in relation to market developments, changing demand, expected skills requirements and all other issues that can improve the foresight in policy making.
ERT Comment
There are numerous examples of sectoral engagements, often at national level, but there is no evidence of a comprehensive EU-wide engagement. (last updated 01/06/10)
Review the EU approach to competition policy
Review the EU approach to competition policy, strengthening the role of investment, efficiencies and innovation. Ensure that the merger control regime supports the necessary consolidation needs of European industries to create strong European players while maintaining fair competition in the Single Market.
ERT Comment
There are indications that Commissioner Almunia is considering a review of certain aspects of EU competition policy. (last updated 01/06/10)
Modernise the approach to regulation
Modernise the approach to regulation by basing regulatory decisions on a sound economic analysis, taking into account effects on innovation and investment with a positive impact on sustainable economic growth. Ensure that regulatory principles are consistent with the principles of EU competition law. Under a smart regulatory approach, it is important to opt for the regulatory instruments that are most appropriate for the achievement of the pursued policy objective. Direct regulation should only be resorted to where effective competition cannot be ensured, for example where market failures exist.
ERT Comment
There has been no new progress at this time. (last updated 01/06/10)
Ensure coherence of energy and climate change policy development
Ensure coherence of energy and climate change policy development within the European Commission.
ERT Comment
During the Commission hearings at the European Parliament there was much talk of coherence and cooperation. This has not, in practice, been evident. There has already been a divergence within the Commission over the issue of carbon taxation. (last updated 01/06/10)