For a social and just Europe
In Europe mass unemployment must be fought effectively. Europe needs a harmonized European employment strategy and economic policy. The unilateral orientation of the European employment strategy on structural reforms of the labour market at the expense of those looking for work and in wage-related employment, which can be found in many parts, must be abandoned in favour of a general economic policy for the creation of jobs which are oriented on the needs of the people and their families. Mass unemployment can also be effectively reduced through the reduction of working hours. Working hour policies are employment policies. To deal with the marginalization of young people through unemployment, we need a right to a qualified first training for all young people in all countries of Europe..
Gainful employment must be remunerated justly. A “European minimum wage” should reach at least 50% of the respective national average wage. Qualitative growth must be the guiding idea of a European “quality offensive”, which is economical, ecological, social and sustainable and creates “good work for all”.
We need a binding implementation of the European Social Charter and thus its full ratification by all the member states. This will create an important basis for a European social model, also for honouring the right to equal opportunities and treatment of women in employment and profession. The right of information, consultation and involvement of employees or their representatives demands the further development of co-determination on the company and corporate level.
All forms of human work must be recognized as being of equal value and rank.