European agenda 2012: focus on economy and innovation
The main point of focus of the European Commission (EC) for 2012 will be fighting the Euro crisis and its consequences. The commission announced this in its recently published Work Programme 2012. Apart from stating many other policy measures, the Work Programme puts most emphasis on fighting the Euro crisis. They do however place this in a broader economic perspective.
Fighting the Euro crisis
In trying to tackle the immediate Euro crisis, the EC announced a number of measures. Not only will budgetary regulations for Member States will be tightened and sharply monitored, financial markets will also be placed under intensified scrutiny. Actors on financial markets, such as banks and credit rating agencies, will have to deal with tighter regulations. In trying to get banks to pay their perceived share in causing the crisis, the EC will investigate options for taxing financial transactions.
Stimulating economic growth
Economic recovery is high on the agenda as well. The EC will try to get the economy back on track by promoting research and development and the digital agenda. They will also be looking at possibilities to ease regulatory burden for both corporations and consumers, most notably for SMEs. Central in the EC’s economic policy is sustainability and saving resources.
Getting the job market to work again
When it comes to stimulating the job market, the EC focusses on
mobility. Flexibility is key and education for both younger and
older employees remains a special point of attention.