23-03-2007: CESI on the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Rome: Europe is an unprecedented success story, but it needs a stronger social dimension

Speaking on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Rome, CESI General Secretary, Helmut Müllers observed: "European integration is a success story unparalleled across the globe. 50 years of European cooperation have brought peace and prosperity to Europeans. This is something about which we can be quite proud."
"Workers, too", Müllers continued, "have benefited, to an increasing extent, from social and employment policy initiatives at European level. Numerous provisions for worker protection set down minimum standards, which apply in all EU Member States. Furthermore, the European Social Fund has promoted a range of employment policy initiatives and thus contributed to social cohesion. I have to admit to a little sense of pride when I note that trade unions have, via numerous social dialogues, also played a successful role in the construction of Europe."
"Nevertheless, the success of European integration should not allow us to rest on our laurels", Müllers continued. "The problems of unemployment and social exclusion remain unsolved in many countries. The discrimination ban, stipulated in the treaties, is still not fully implemented across the board."
"Furthermore, globalisation and progressive liberalisation are presenting us with great challenges. Here, employees expect balanced action rather than an unbridled dismantling of barriers to trade. Europe needs a stronger social dimension, which must also shine in the rest of the world. Here, an effective EU with clear responsibilities and decision-making mechanisms is needed. Independent trade unions therefore hope that the anniversary of the signing of the treaties of Rome will be taken as an opportunity to get the deadlocked constitutional process back on track", concluded the CESI General Secretary.