# C_2017265EN.01020101.xml

| 11.8.2017 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 265/201 |
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11.8.2017

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 265/201

---

P8_TA(2015)0261

Guidelines for the employment policies of the Member States *

European Parliament legislative resolution of 8 July 2015 on the proposal for a Council decision on guidelines for the employment policies of the Member States (COM(2015)0098 — C8-0075/2015 — 2015/0051(NLE))

(Consultation)

(2017/C 265/39)

The European Parliament,

The European Parliament

| — | having regard to the Commission proposal to the Council (COM(2015)0098), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Commission proposal to the Council (COM(2015)0098),

| — | having regard to Article 148(2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, pursuant to which the Council consulted Parliament (C8-0075/2015), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Article 148(2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, pursuant to which the Council consulted Parliament (C8-0075/2015),

| — | having regard to Rule 59 of its Rules of Procedure, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Rule 59 of its Rules of Procedure,

| — | having regard to the report of the Committee on Employment and Social Affairs (A8-0205/2015), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the report of the Committee on Employment and Social Affairs (A8-0205/2015),

| 1. | Approves the Commission proposal as amended; |
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1.

Approves the Commission proposal as amended;

| 2. | Calls on the Commission to alter its proposal accordingly, in accordance with Article 293(2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union; |
| --- | --- |

2.

Calls on the Commission to alter its proposal accordingly, in accordance with Article 293(2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union;

| 3. | Calls on the Council to notify Parliament if it intends to depart from the text approved by Parliament; |
| --- | --- |

3.

Calls on the Council to notify Parliament if it intends to depart from the text approved by Parliament;

| 4. | Asks the Council to consult Parliament again if it intends to substantially amend the Commission proposal; |
| --- | --- |

4.

Asks the Council to consult Parliament again if it intends to substantially amend the Commission proposal;

| 5. | Instructs its President to forward its position to the Council and the Commission. |
| --- | --- |

5.

Instructs its President to forward its position to the Council and the Commission.

Amendment 1

Amendment 1

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Recital 1

Recital 1

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| (1) | Member States and the Union should work towards developing
  a
  coordinated strategy for employment
  and particularly
  for promoting a skilled, trained
  and adaptable
  workforce and labour markets responsive to economic change
  and
  with a view to achieving the full employment and social progress objectives set out in Article 3 of the Treaty on European Union. Member States, having regard to national practices related to the responsibilities of management and labour, are to regard promoting employment as a matter of common concern and coordinate their action in this respect within the Council. |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

(1)

Member States and the Union should work towards developing
  a
  coordinated strategy for employment
  and particularly
  for promoting a skilled, trained
  and adaptable
  workforce and labour markets responsive to economic change
  and
  with a view to achieving the full employment and social progress objectives set out in Article 3 of the Treaty on European Union. Member States, having regard to national practices related to the responsibilities of management and labour, are to regard promoting employment as a matter of common concern and coordinate their action in this respect within the Council.

a

and particularly

and adaptable

and

| (1) | Member States and the Union should work towards developing
  an effective and
  coordinated strategy for employment
  , designed to counter the serious effects of unemployment,
  for promoting a skilled, trained workforce and labour markets responsive to economic
  , social and environmental
  change
  , notably through the targeted promotion of training in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics sectors and through the adaptation of the education systems,
  with a view to achieving the full employment and social progress objectives set out in Article 3 of the Treaty on European Union.
  Particular efforts should be made to increase the employment of workers with very low levels of schooling or skills and of those who are unable to acquire training or skills rapidly, and to reduce ever increasing large-scale and long-term unemployment, with particular focus on regions which are lagging behind.
  Member States, having regard to national practices related to the responsibilities of management and labour, are to regard promoting employment as
  a priority and
  a matter of common concern and coordinate their action in this respect within the Council.
  The Union should accompany those efforts with policy proposals to achieve the Treaty objectives and to ensure an inclusive, integrated labour market as well as decent working conditions across the Union, including adequate wages, also achieved by way of collective bargaining. |
| --- | --- |

(1)

Member States and the Union should work towards developing
  an effective and
  coordinated strategy for employment
  , designed to counter the serious effects of unemployment,
  for promoting a skilled, trained workforce and labour markets responsive to economic
  , social and environmental
  change
  , notably through the targeted promotion of training in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics sectors and through the adaptation of the education systems,
  with a view to achieving the full employment and social progress objectives set out in Article 3 of the Treaty on European Union.
  Particular efforts should be made to increase the employment of workers with very low levels of schooling or skills and of those who are unable to acquire training or skills rapidly, and to reduce ever increasing large-scale and long-term unemployment, with particular focus on regions which are lagging behind.
  Member States, having regard to national practices related to the responsibilities of management and labour, are to regard promoting employment as
  a priority and
  a matter of common concern and coordinate their action in this respect within the Council.
  The Union should accompany those efforts with policy proposals to achieve the Treaty objectives and to ensure an inclusive, integrated labour market as well as decent working conditions across the Union, including adequate wages, also achieved by way of collective bargaining.

an effective and

, designed to counter the serious effects of unemployment,

, social and environmental

, notably through the targeted promotion of training in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics sectors and through the adaptation of the education systems,

Particular efforts should be made to increase the employment of workers with very low levels of schooling or skills and of those who are unable to acquire training or skills rapidly, and to reduce ever increasing large-scale and long-term unemployment, with particular focus on regions which are lagging behind.

a priority and

The Union should accompany those efforts with policy proposals to achieve the Treaty objectives and to ensure an inclusive, integrated labour market as well as decent working conditions across the Union, including adequate wages, also achieved by way of collective bargaining.

Amendment 2

Amendment 2

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Recital 1 a (new)

Recital 1 a (new)

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| | (1a) | According to Eurostat estimates, there were 23 815 000 unemployed people in the Union in January 2015, 18 059 000 of whom were in the euro area. |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

(1a)

(1a)

According to Eurostat estimates, there were 23 815 000 unemployed people in the Union in January 2015, 18 059 000 of whom were in the euro area.

According to Eurostat estimates, there were 23 815 000 unemployed people in the Union in January 2015, 18 059 000 of whom were in the euro area.

Amendment 3

Amendment 3

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Recital 1 b (new)

Recital 1 b (new)

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| | (1b) | It is now essential to establish reliable indicators for the condition of poverty in which many Union citizens find themselves, with respect to the previous figures contained in Council Decision 2010/707/EU

   (1bis)

  which identified the need to lift at least 20 million people out of the risk of poverty and exclusion. |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

(1b)

(1b)

It is now essential to establish reliable indicators for the condition of poverty in which many Union citizens find themselves, with respect to the previous figures contained in Council Decision 2010/707/EU

   (1bis)

  which identified the need to lift at least 20 million people out of the risk of poverty and exclusion.

It is now essential to establish reliable indicators for the condition of poverty in which many Union citizens find themselves, with respect to the previous figures contained in Council Decision 2010/707/EU

1bis

which identified the need to lift at least 20 million people out of the risk of poverty and exclusion.

Amendment 4

Amendment 4

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Recital 2

Recital 2

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| (2) | The Union must combat social exclusion
  and
  discrimination, ensure equal access to fundamental rights, and promote social justice and protection. In defining and implementing its policies and activities, the Union should take into account requirements linked to the guarantee of adequate social protection
  and
  the fight against social exclusion and a high level of education and training. |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

(2)

The Union must combat social exclusion
  and
  discrimination, ensure equal access to fundamental rights, and promote social justice and protection. In defining and implementing its policies and activities, the Union should take into account requirements linked to the guarantee of adequate social protection
  and
  the fight against social exclusion and a high level of education and training.

and

and

| (2) | The Union must combat social exclusion
  , all forms of poverty as well as
  discrimination, ensure equal access to fundamental rights, and promote social justice and protection.
  This overall objective should not be endangered by side effects of other legislation or policies.
  In defining and implementing its policies and activities, the Union should take into account requirements linked to the guarantee of adequate social protection, the fight against social exclusion, and a high level of education and training. |
| --- | --- |

(2)

The Union must combat social exclusion
  , all forms of poverty as well as
  discrimination, ensure equal access to fundamental rights, and promote social justice and protection.
  This overall objective should not be endangered by side effects of other legislation or policies.
  In defining and implementing its policies and activities, the Union should take into account requirements linked to the guarantee of adequate social protection, the fight against social exclusion, and a high level of education and training.

, all forms of poverty as well as

This overall objective should not be endangered by side effects of other legislation or policies.

Amendment 6

Amendment 6

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Recital 4

Recital 4

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| (4) | Member States should regard their economic policies as a matter of common concern and coordinate them within the Council. Employment guidelines and broad economic policy guidelines should be adopted by the Council to guide Member States’ and Union policies. |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

(4)

Member States should regard their economic policies as a matter of common concern and coordinate them within the Council. Employment guidelines and broad economic policy guidelines should be adopted by the Council to guide Member States’ and Union policies.

| (4) | Member States should regard their economic policies
  , together with their social policies,
  as a matter of common concern and coordinate them within the Council. Employment guidelines and broad economic policy guidelines should be adopted by the Council to guide Member States’ and Union policies. |
| --- | --- |

(4)

Member States should regard their economic policies
  , together with their social policies,
  as a matter of common concern and coordinate them within the Council. Employment guidelines and broad economic policy guidelines should be adopted by the Council to guide Member States’ and Union policies.

, together with their social policies,

Amendment 7

Amendment 7

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Recital 4 a (new)

Recital 4 a (new)

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| | (4a) | To ensure a more democratic decision-making on the integrated


  guidelines, which affect the citizens and labour markets across the Union, it is important that both the employment guidelines and the broad economic guidelines are decided upon by the European Parliament and the Council. The integrated guidelines must allow Member States, as a priority, to adopt sustainable and integrated economic models at Union, national and local level. |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

(4a)

(4a)

To ensure a more democratic decision-making on the integrated


  guidelines, which affect the citizens and labour markets across the Union, it is important that both the employment guidelines and the broad economic guidelines are decided upon by the European Parliament and the Council. The integrated guidelines must allow Member States, as a priority, to adopt sustainable and integrated economic models at Union, national and local level.

To ensure a more democratic decision-making on the integrated

guidelines, which affect the citizens and labour markets across the Union, it is important that both the employment guidelines and the broad economic guidelines are decided upon by the European Parliament and the Council. The integrated guidelines must allow Member States, as a priority, to adopt sustainable and integrated economic models at Union, national and local level.

Amendment 8

Amendment 8

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Recital 5

Recital 5

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| (5) | In accordance with the Treaty provisions, the Union has developed and implemented policy coordination instruments for fiscal policy and macro-structural policies. The European Semester combines the different instruments in an overarching framework for integrated multilateral economic
  and
  budgetary
  surveillance
  . The streamlining and strengthening of the European Semester as set out in the Commission's 2015 Annual Growth Survey
  will
  further improve its functioning. |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

(5)

In accordance with the Treaty provisions, the Union has developed and implemented policy coordination instruments for fiscal policy and macro-structural policies. The European Semester combines the different instruments in an overarching framework for integrated multilateral economic
  and
  budgetary
  surveillance
  . The streamlining and strengthening of the European Semester as set out in the Commission's 2015 Annual Growth Survey
  will
  further improve its functioning.

and

surveillance

will

| (5) | In accordance with the Treaty, the Union has developed and implemented policy coordination instruments for fiscal policy and macro-structural policies
  which have a strong impact on the social and employment situation in the Union
  .
  Those policies may result in a trend of stagnation and deflation in some parts of the Union, which could discourage growth and employment. In that regard, it is vital to take into consideration the new social indicators and the asymmetric shocks that certain Member States have experienced as a result of the financial and economic crisis
  . The European Semester combines the different instruments in an overarching framework for integrated multilateral
  surveillance of
  economic, budgetary
  , employment and social policies, and should be better geared to delivering the EU2020 targets
  . The streamlining and strengthening of the European Semester as set out in the Commission's 2015 Annual Growth Survey
  may
  further improve its functioning
  , but that instrument has not yet improved the economic situation in the Member States worst affected by the crisis
  . |
| --- | --- |

(5)

In accordance with the Treaty, the Union has developed and implemented policy coordination instruments for fiscal policy and macro-structural policies
  which have a strong impact on the social and employment situation in the Union
  .
  Those policies may result in a trend of stagnation and deflation in some parts of the Union, which could discourage growth and employment. In that regard, it is vital to take into consideration the new social indicators and the asymmetric shocks that certain Member States have experienced as a result of the financial and economic crisis
  . The European Semester combines the different instruments in an overarching framework for integrated multilateral
  surveillance of
  economic, budgetary
  , employment and social policies, and should be better geared to delivering the EU2020 targets
  . The streamlining and strengthening of the European Semester as set out in the Commission's 2015 Annual Growth Survey
  may
  further improve its functioning
  , but that instrument has not yet improved the economic situation in the Member States worst affected by the crisis
  .

which have a strong impact on the social and employment situation in the Union

Those policies may result in a trend of stagnation and deflation in some parts of the Union, which could discourage growth and employment. In that regard, it is vital to take into consideration the new social indicators and the asymmetric shocks that certain Member States have experienced as a result of the financial and economic crisis

surveillance of

, employment and social policies, and should be better geared to delivering the EU2020 targets

may

, but that instrument has not yet improved the economic situation in the Member States worst affected by the crisis

Amendment 9

Amendment 9

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Recital 5 a (new)

Recital 5 a (new)

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| | (5a) | According to the European Social Observatory, 26 Member States already have income support and social protection schemes

   (1bis).
  The Commissioner for Employment, Social Affairs, Skills and Labour Mobility, Marianne Thyssen, stated that ‘if [she] could decide what happens in all Member States in Europe, then there would be a minimum income in all countries in Europe’. |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

(5a)

(5a)

According to the European Social Observatory, 26 Member States already have income support and social protection schemes

   (1bis).
  The Commissioner for Employment, Social Affairs, Skills and Labour Mobility, Marianne Thyssen, stated that ‘if [she] could decide what happens in all Member States in Europe, then there would be a minimum income in all countries in Europe’.

According to the European Social Observatory, 26 Member States already have income support and social protection schemes

1bis

The Commissioner for Employment, Social Affairs, Skills and Labour Mobility, Marianne Thyssen, stated that ‘if [she] could decide what happens in all Member States in Europe, then there would be a minimum income in all countries in Europe’.

Amendment 10

Amendment 10

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Recital 5 b (new)

Recital 5 b (new)

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| | (5b) | There is no regulatory competence at Union level for the creation of a regulatory framework for a Union minimum wage. |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

(5b)

(5b)

There is no regulatory competence at Union level for the creation of a regulatory framework for a Union minimum wage.

There is no regulatory competence at Union level for the creation of a regulatory framework for a Union minimum wage.

Amendment 47

Amendment 47

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Recital 6

Recital 6

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| (6) | The financial and economic crisis revealed and emphasised
  important
  weaknesses in the
  economy
  of the
  Union and its Member States
  . It has also underscored the close interdependence of the Member States' economies and labour markets. Moving the Union to a state of strong, sustainable and inclusive growth and job creation is the key challenge faced today. This requires coordinated
  and ambitious
  policy action both on Union and national level, in line with the provisions of the Treaty and the Union economic governance. Combining supply and demand side measures, these actions should encompass a boost to investment,
  a
  renewed commitment to structural reforms and exercising fiscal responsibility. |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

(6)

The financial and economic crisis revealed and emphasised
  important
  weaknesses in the
  economy
  of the
  Union and its Member States
  . It has also underscored the close interdependence of the Member States' economies and labour markets. Moving the Union to a state of strong, sustainable and inclusive growth and job creation is the key challenge faced today. This requires coordinated
  and ambitious
  policy action both on Union and national level, in line with the provisions of the Treaty and the Union economic governance. Combining supply and demand side measures, these actions should encompass a boost to investment,
  a
  renewed commitment to structural reforms and exercising fiscal responsibility.

important

economy

Union and its Member States

and ambitious

a

| (6) | The financial and economic crisis revealed and emphasised
  serious
  weaknesses in the
  economies of the Member States and in the Union's coordination mechanisms
  . It has also underscored the close interdependence of the Member States' economies and labour markets. Moving the Union to a state of strong, sustainable and inclusive growth and job creation
  , which involves putting a stop to the large pockets of unemployment that have arisen in certain parts of its territory,
  is the key challenge faced today. This requires
  firm,
  coordinated, ambitious
  , but, above all, effective
  policy action both on Union and national level, in line with the provisions of the Treaty and the Union economic governance. Combining supply and demand side measures, these actions should encompass a boost to investment,
  particularly investment aiming to develop small and medium-sized enterprises, microenterprises, innovative start-ups and businesses promoting green employment and
  renewed commitment to structural reforms and exercising fiscal responsibility.
  Those actions should also encompass the creation of a more inclusive rights-based labour market, flanked by adequate social protection. They should also include social protection measures, such as guaranteed minimum income, to be introduced in accordance with national practices, with the goal of fighting extreme poverty and social exclusion. |
| --- | --- |

(6)

The financial and economic crisis revealed and emphasised
  serious
  weaknesses in the
  economies of the Member States and in the Union's coordination mechanisms
  . It has also underscored the close interdependence of the Member States' economies and labour markets. Moving the Union to a state of strong, sustainable and inclusive growth and job creation
  , which involves putting a stop to the large pockets of unemployment that have arisen in certain parts of its territory,
  is the key challenge faced today. This requires
  firm,
  coordinated, ambitious
  , but, above all, effective
  policy action both on Union and national level, in line with the provisions of the Treaty and the Union economic governance. Combining supply and demand side measures, these actions should encompass a boost to investment,
  particularly investment aiming to develop small and medium-sized enterprises, microenterprises, innovative start-ups and businesses promoting green employment and
  renewed commitment to structural reforms and exercising fiscal responsibility.
  Those actions should also encompass the creation of a more inclusive rights-based labour market, flanked by adequate social protection. They should also include social protection measures, such as guaranteed minimum income, to be introduced in accordance with national practices, with the goal of fighting extreme poverty and social exclusion.

serious

economies of the Member States and in the Union's coordination mechanisms

, which involves putting a stop to the large pockets of unemployment that have arisen in certain parts of its territory,

firm,

, but, above all, effective

particularly investment aiming to develop small and medium-sized enterprises, microenterprises, innovative start-ups and businesses promoting green employment and

Those actions should also encompass the creation of a more inclusive rights-based labour market, flanked by adequate social protection. They should also include social protection measures, such as guaranteed minimum income, to be introduced in accordance with national practices, with the goal of fighting extreme poverty and social exclusion.

Amendment 12

Amendment 12

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Recital 7

Recital 7

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| (7) | Member States and the Union should also address the social impact of the crisis and aim
  at building a cohesive
  society in which people are empowered to anticipate and manage change, and can actively participate in society and the economy. Access and opportunities for all should be ensured and poverty and social exclusion reduced, in particular by ensuring an effective functioning of labour markets and social welfare systems and removing barriers to labour market participation. Member States should also make sure that the benefits of economic growth reach all citizens and all region
  s
  . |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

(7)

Member States and the Union should also address the social impact of the crisis and aim
  at building a cohesive
  society in which people are empowered to anticipate and manage change, and can actively participate in society and the economy. Access and opportunities for all should be ensured and poverty and social exclusion reduced, in particular by ensuring an effective functioning of labour markets and social welfare systems and removing barriers to labour market participation. Member States should also make sure that the benefits of economic growth reach all citizens and all region
  s
  .

at building a cohesive

s

| (7) | Member States and the Union should also address the social impact of the crisis
  by providing more reliable figures on extreme poverty,
  and aim
  to build an inclusive and more just
  society in which people are empowered to anticipate and manage change, and can actively participate in society and the economy.
  Non-discriminatory
  access and opportunities for all should be ensured and poverty and social exclusion reduced
  substantially
  , in particular by ensuring an effective functioning of labour markets and
  adequate
  social welfare systems and removing
  unnecessary administrative barriers and
  barriers to labour market participation
  , in particular those affecting people with disabilities
  . Member States should also make sure that the benefits of economic growth reach all citizens and all
  regional and local entities
  .
  The scoreboard of key employment and social indicators within the Joint Employment Report is a particularly useful tool in this respect by helping to detect key employment and social problems and divergences in a timely way and identify areas where policy response is most needed. However, further editions of the scoreboard should include also gender disaggregated data. |
| --- | --- |

(7)

Member States and the Union should also address the social impact of the crisis
  by providing more reliable figures on extreme poverty,
  and aim
  to build an inclusive and more just
  society in which people are empowered to anticipate and manage change, and can actively participate in society and the economy.
  Non-discriminatory
  access and opportunities for all should be ensured and poverty and social exclusion reduced
  substantially
  , in particular by ensuring an effective functioning of labour markets and
  adequate
  social welfare systems and removing
  unnecessary administrative barriers and
  barriers to labour market participation
  , in particular those affecting people with disabilities
  . Member States should also make sure that the benefits of economic growth reach all citizens and all
  regional and local entities
  .
  The scoreboard of key employment and social indicators within the Joint Employment Report is a particularly useful tool in this respect by helping to detect key employment and social problems and divergences in a timely way and identify areas where policy response is most needed. However, further editions of the scoreboard should include also gender disaggregated data.

by providing more reliable figures on extreme poverty,

to build an inclusive and more just

Non-discriminatory

substantially

adequate

unnecessary administrative barriers and

, in particular those affecting people with disabilities

regional and local entities

The scoreboard of key employment and social indicators within the Joint Employment Report is a particularly useful tool in this respect by helping to detect key employment and social problems and divergences in a timely way and identify areas where policy response is most needed. However, further editions of the scoreboard should include also gender disaggregated data.

Amendment 13

Amendment 13

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Recital 7 a (new)

Recital 7 a (new)

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| | (7a) | The European Court of Auditors has identified three risks to the successful implementation of the Youth Guarantee initiative: the adequacy of total funding, the definition of a ‘good quality offer’, and the way the Commission monitors and reports on the results of the scheme. |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

(7a)

(7a)

The European Court of Auditors has identified three risks to the successful implementation of the Youth Guarantee initiative: the adequacy of total funding, the definition of a ‘good quality offer’, and the way the Commission monitors and reports on the results of the scheme.

The European Court of Auditors has identified three risks to the successful implementation of the Youth Guarantee initiative: the adequacy of total funding, the definition of a ‘good quality offer’, and the way the Commission monitors and reports on the results of the scheme.

Amendment 14

Amendment 14

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Recital 7 b (new)

Recital 7 b (new)

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| | (7b) | Council Decision 2010/707/EU

   (1bis)

  set out the following goals: to raise the employment rate for women and men aged 20 to 64 to 75 % by 2020; to reduce the drop-out rates to less than 10 %; to increase the share of 30 to 34-year-olds completing tertiary or equivalent education to at least 40 %; and to promote social inclusion, in particular through the reduction of poverty by aiming to lift at least 20 million people out of the risk of poverty and exclusion. The realisation of the Europe 2020 strategy in the employment and social area remains a key objective of Member States’ employment policy. |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

(7b)

(7b)

Council Decision 2010/707/EU

   (1bis)

  set out the following goals: to raise the employment rate for women and men aged 20 to 64 to 75 % by 2020; to reduce the drop-out rates to less than 10 %; to increase the share of 30 to 34-year-olds completing tertiary or equivalent education to at least 40 %; and to promote social inclusion, in particular through the reduction of poverty by aiming to lift at least 20 million people out of the risk of poverty and exclusion. The realisation of the Europe 2020 strategy in the employment and social area remains a key objective of Member States’ employment policy.

Council Decision 2010/707/EU

1bis

set out the following goals: to raise the employment rate for women and men aged 20 to 64 to 75 % by 2020; to reduce the drop-out rates to less than 10 %; to increase the share of 30 to 34-year-olds completing tertiary or equivalent education to at least 40 %; and to promote social inclusion, in particular through the reduction of poverty by aiming to lift at least 20 million people out of the risk of poverty and exclusion. The realisation of the Europe 2020 strategy in the employment and social area remains a key objective of Member States’ employment policy.

Amendment 15

Amendment 15

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Recital 8

Recital 8

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| (8) | Action in line with the guidelines is an important contribution to reaching the goals of the Europe 2020 strategy. The guidelines constitute an integrated set of European and national policies, which Member States and the Union should implement in order to achieve the positive spill-over effects of coordinated
  structural
  reforms, an appropriate overall economic policy mix and a more consistent contribution from European policies to the Europe 2020 strategy’s objectives. |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

(8)

Action in line with the guidelines is an important contribution to reaching the goals of the Europe 2020 strategy. The guidelines constitute an integrated set of European and national policies, which Member States and the Union should implement in order to achieve the positive spill-over effects of coordinated
  structural
  reforms, an appropriate overall economic policy mix and a more consistent contribution from European policies to the Europe 2020 strategy’s objectives.

structural

| (8) | Action in line with the guidelines is an important contribution to reaching the goals of the Europe 2020 strategy
  which have not yet been achieved
  .
  The outcome of the 2014 public consultation on the Europe 2020 strategy clearly showed that the employment, poverty, social exclusion and education targets of the strategy are still highly relevant, and are equally important, interdependent and mutually reinforcing.
  The guidelines constitute an integrated set of European and national policies, which Member States and the Union should implement in order to achieve the positive spill-over effects of coordinated reforms
  aiming to reduce inequalities and increasing the well-being of citizens
  , an appropriate overall economic policy mix and a more consistent contribution from European policies to the Europe 2020 strategy’s objectives. |
| --- | --- |

(8)

Action in line with the guidelines is an important contribution to reaching the goals of the Europe 2020 strategy
  which have not yet been achieved
  .
  The outcome of the 2014 public consultation on the Europe 2020 strategy clearly showed that the employment, poverty, social exclusion and education targets of the strategy are still highly relevant, and are equally important, interdependent and mutually reinforcing.
  The guidelines constitute an integrated set of European and national policies, which Member States and the Union should implement in order to achieve the positive spill-over effects of coordinated reforms
  aiming to reduce inequalities and increasing the well-being of citizens
  , an appropriate overall economic policy mix and a more consistent contribution from European policies to the Europe 2020 strategy’s objectives.

which have not yet been achieved

The outcome of the 2014 public consultation on the Europe 2020 strategy clearly showed that the employment, poverty, social exclusion and education targets of the strategy are still highly relevant, and are equally important, interdependent and mutually reinforcing.

aiming to reduce inequalities and increasing the well-being of citizens

Amendment 16

Amendment 16

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Recital 9

Recital 9

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| (9) | While these guidelines are addressed to Member States and the Union, they should be implemented in partnership with all national, regional and local authorities,
  closely associating
  parliaments, as well as social partners and representatives of civil society. |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

(9)

While these guidelines are addressed to Member States and the Union, they should be implemented in partnership with all national, regional and local authorities,
  closely associating
  parliaments, as well as social partners and representatives of civil society.

closely associating

| (9) | When designing and implementing national policies, Member States should ensure effective governance.
  While these guidelines are addressed to Member States and the Union, they should be implemented
  , monitored and evaluated
  in partnership with all national, regional and local authorities, parliaments, as well as social partners and representatives of civil society. |
| --- | --- |

(9)

When designing and implementing national policies, Member States should ensure effective governance.
  While these guidelines are addressed to Member States and the Union, they should be implemented
  , monitored and evaluated
  in partnership with all national, regional and local authorities, parliaments, as well as social partners and representatives of civil society.

When designing and implementing national policies, Member States should ensure effective governance.

, monitored and evaluated

Amendment 17

Amendment 17

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Recital 10

Recital 10

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| (10) | The broad guidelines for economic policies give guidance to the Member States on implementing reforms
  , reflecting interdependence. They are in line with the Stability and Growth Pact. The guidelines
  should form the basis for country-specific recommendations that the Council may address to the Member States. |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

(10)

The broad guidelines for economic policies give guidance to the Member States on implementing reforms
  , reflecting interdependence. They are in line with the Stability and Growth Pact. The guidelines
  should form the basis for country-specific recommendations that the Council may address to the Member States.

, reflecting interdependence. They are in line with the Stability and Growth Pact. The guidelines

| (10) | The broad guidelines for economic policies
  and the employment guidelines
  give guidance to the Member States on implementing reforms
  and
  should form the basis for country-specific recommendations that the Council may address to the Member States.
  Given the close interdependence of Member States' economies and labour markets, when adopting country-specific recommendations the Council should take into consideration the state of affairs in the neighbouring countries as well as in countries with which the respective Member State has clear connections following a trend in migration by workers or any other relevant indicator. In that respect, the Commission should have accurate and updated statistics and data available in case the country-specific recommendations need to be adjusted. |
| --- | --- |

(10)

The broad guidelines for economic policies
  and the employment guidelines
  give guidance to the Member States on implementing reforms
  and
  should form the basis for country-specific recommendations that the Council may address to the Member States.
  Given the close interdependence of Member States' economies and labour markets, when adopting country-specific recommendations the Council should take into consideration the state of affairs in the neighbouring countries as well as in countries with which the respective Member State has clear connections following a trend in migration by workers or any other relevant indicator. In that respect, the Commission should have accurate and updated statistics and data available in case the country-specific recommendations need to be adjusted.

and the employment guidelines

and

Given the close interdependence of Member States' economies and labour markets, when adopting country-specific recommendations the Council should take into consideration the state of affairs in the neighbouring countries as well as in countries with which the respective Member State has clear connections following a trend in migration by workers or any other relevant indicator. In that respect, the Commission should have accurate and updated statistics and data available in case the country-specific recommendations need to be adjusted.

Amendment 18

Amendment 18

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Annex — Guideline 5 — paragraph 1

Annex — Guideline 5 — paragraph 1

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| Member States should facilitate job creation, reduce barriers for business to hire people, promote entrepreneurship and in particular support the creation and growth of small enterprises in order to increase the employment rate of women and men. Member States should
  also
  actively promote the social economy and foster social innovation. | Member States
  , in cooperation with regional and local authorities,
  should
  effectively and promptly tackle the serious issue of unemployment, and
  facilitate
  and invest in sustainable and quality
  job creation,
  address accessibility for at-risk groups and
  reduce barriers for business to hire people
  across skill levels and labour market sectors, including by cutting red tape, whilst respecting labour and social standards
  , promote
  youth
  entrepreneurship and in particular support the creation and growth of
  micro,
  small
  and medium
  enterprises in order to increase the employment rate of women and men. Member States should actively promote
  , inter alia, green, white and blue-sector jobs and
  the social economy and foster social innovation. |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

Member States should facilitate job creation, reduce barriers for business to hire people, promote entrepreneurship and in particular support the creation and growth of small enterprises in order to increase the employment rate of women and men. Member States should
  also
  actively promote the social economy and foster social innovation.

also

Member States
  , in cooperation with regional and local authorities,
  should
  effectively and promptly tackle the serious issue of unemployment, and
  facilitate
  and invest in sustainable and quality
  job creation,
  address accessibility for at-risk groups and
  reduce barriers for business to hire people
  across skill levels and labour market sectors, including by cutting red tape, whilst respecting labour and social standards
  , promote
  youth
  entrepreneurship and in particular support the creation and growth of
  micro,
  small
  and medium
  enterprises in order to increase the employment rate of women and men. Member States should actively promote
  , inter alia, green, white and blue-sector jobs and
  the social economy and foster social innovation.

, in cooperation with regional and local authorities,

effectively and promptly tackle the serious issue of unemployment, and

and invest in sustainable and quality

address accessibility for at-risk groups and

across skill levels and labour market sectors, including by cutting red tape, whilst respecting labour and social standards

youth

micro,

and medium

, inter alia, green, white and blue-sector jobs and

Amendment 19

Amendment 19

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Annex — Guideline 5 — paragraph 2

Annex — Guideline 5 — paragraph 2

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| The tax burden should be shifted away from labour to other sources of taxation that are less detrimental to employment and growth while protecting revenue for adequate social protection and
  growth enhancing
  expenditures. Reductions in labour taxation should be aimed at the relevant components of the tax burden and at removing barriers and disincentives to labour market participation, in particular for those furthest away from the labour market. | The tax burden should be shifted away from labour to other sources of taxation that are less detrimental to employment and growth while protecting revenue for adequate social protection and expenditures
  directed towards public investment, innovation and job creation
  . Reductions in labour taxation should be aimed at the relevant components of the tax burden
  , at tackling discrimination
  and at removing barriers and disincentives to labour market participation, in particular for
  people with disabilities and
  those furthest away from the labour market
  , while respecting existing labour standards
  . |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

The tax burden should be shifted away from labour to other sources of taxation that are less detrimental to employment and growth while protecting revenue for adequate social protection and
  growth enhancing
  expenditures. Reductions in labour taxation should be aimed at the relevant components of the tax burden and at removing barriers and disincentives to labour market participation, in particular for those furthest away from the labour market.

growth enhancing

The tax burden should be shifted away from labour to other sources of taxation that are less detrimental to employment and growth while protecting revenue for adequate social protection and expenditures
  directed towards public investment, innovation and job creation
  . Reductions in labour taxation should be aimed at the relevant components of the tax burden
  , at tackling discrimination
  and at removing barriers and disincentives to labour market participation, in particular for
  people with disabilities and
  those furthest away from the labour market
  , while respecting existing labour standards
  .

directed towards public investment, innovation and job creation

, at tackling discrimination

people with disabilities and

, while respecting existing labour standards

Amendment 20

Amendment 20

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Annex — Guideline 5 — paragraph 3

Annex — Guideline 5 — paragraph 3

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| Member States should, together with the social partners, encourage wage-setting mechanisms allowing for a responsiveness of wages to productivity developments. In this respect, differences in skills and local labour market conditions
  as well as divergences in economic performance across regions, sectors and companies
  should be
  taken into account
  . When setting minimum wages, Member States and social partners should consider their impact on in-work poverty, job creation and competitiveness. | Policies to ensure that wages allow an adequate living income remain important to create employment and decrease poverty in the Union.
  Member States should
  therefore
  , together with the social partners,
  respect and
  encourage wage-setting mechanisms allowing for a responsiveness of
  real
  wages to productivity developments
  helping to correct past divergence without fuelling deflationary pressure. Those mechanisms should ensure sufficient resources to satisfy basic needs, taking account poverty indicators specific to each Member State
  . In this respect, differences in skills and local labour market conditions should be
  properly evaluated with the aim of ensuring a decent living wage across the Union
  . When setting minimum wages
  in accordance with national legislation and practices
  , Member States and social partners should
  ensure their adequacy as well as
  consider their impact on in-work poverty,
  household income, aggregate demand,
  job creation and competitiveness. |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

Member States should, together with the social partners, encourage wage-setting mechanisms allowing for a responsiveness of wages to productivity developments. In this respect, differences in skills and local labour market conditions
  as well as divergences in economic performance across regions, sectors and companies
  should be
  taken into account
  . When setting minimum wages, Member States and social partners should consider their impact on in-work poverty, job creation and competitiveness.

as well as divergences in economic performance across regions, sectors and companies

taken into account

Policies to ensure that wages allow an adequate living income remain important to create employment and decrease poverty in the Union.
  Member States should
  therefore
  , together with the social partners,
  respect and
  encourage wage-setting mechanisms allowing for a responsiveness of
  real
  wages to productivity developments
  helping to correct past divergence without fuelling deflationary pressure. Those mechanisms should ensure sufficient resources to satisfy basic needs, taking account poverty indicators specific to each Member State
  . In this respect, differences in skills and local labour market conditions should be
  properly evaluated with the aim of ensuring a decent living wage across the Union
  . When setting minimum wages
  in accordance with national legislation and practices
  , Member States and social partners should
  ensure their adequacy as well as
  consider their impact on in-work poverty,
  household income, aggregate demand,
  job creation and competitiveness.

Policies to ensure that wages allow an adequate living income remain important to create employment and decrease poverty in the Union.

therefore

respect and

real

helping to correct past divergence without fuelling deflationary pressure. Those mechanisms should ensure sufficient resources to satisfy basic needs, taking account poverty indicators specific to each Member State

properly evaluated with the aim of ensuring a decent living wage across the Union

in accordance with national legislation and practices

ensure their adequacy as well as

household income, aggregate demand,

Amendment 21

Amendment 21

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Annex — Guideline 5 — paragraph 3 a (new)

Annex — Guideline 5 — paragraph 3 a (new)

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| | Member States should cut red tape in order to ease the burden on small and medium-sized enterprises, as they contribute significantly to job creation. |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

Member States should cut red tape in order to ease the burden on small and medium-sized enterprises, as they contribute significantly to job creation.

Member States should cut red tape in order to ease the burden on small and medium-sized enterprises, as they contribute significantly to job creation.

Amendment 22

Amendment 22

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Annex — Guideline 6 — paragraph 1

Annex — Guideline 6 — paragraph 1

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| Member States should promote productivity and employability through an appropriate supply of relevant knowledge and skills. Member States should make
  the necessary
  investments in education and vocational training systems while improving their effectiveness and efficiency to raise the skill level of the workforce, allowing it to better anticipate and meet the rapidly changing needs of dynamic labour markets in an increasingly digital economy.
  Member States should step up efforts to improve access to quality adult learning for all and implement active ageing strategies to enable longer working lives. | Member States should promote
  sustainable
  productivity and
  quality
  employability through an appropriate supply of relevant knowledge and skills
  made available and accessible to all
  .
  There should be particular focus on health care, social services and transport services which are facing or will face staff shortages in the medium term.
  Member States should make
  effective
  investments in
  high-quality and inclusive
  education
  from an early age
  and vocational training systems while improving their effectiveness and efficiency to raise the
  knowhow and
  skill level of the workforce,
  while increasing the diversity of skills,
  allowing it to better anticipate and meet the rapidly changing needs of dynamic labour markets in an increasingly digital economy.
  To that end, the fact that ‘soft skills’ such as communication are becoming more important for a large number of occupations should be taken into account. |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

Member States should promote productivity and employability through an appropriate supply of relevant knowledge and skills. Member States should make
  the necessary
  investments in education and vocational training systems while improving their effectiveness and efficiency to raise the skill level of the workforce, allowing it to better anticipate and meet the rapidly changing needs of dynamic labour markets in an increasingly digital economy.
  Member States should step up efforts to improve access to quality adult learning for all and implement active ageing strategies to enable longer working lives.

the necessary

Member States should step up efforts to improve access to quality adult learning for all and implement active ageing strategies to enable longer working lives.

Member States should promote
  sustainable
  productivity and
  quality
  employability through an appropriate supply of relevant knowledge and skills
  made available and accessible to all
  .
  There should be particular focus on health care, social services and transport services which are facing or will face staff shortages in the medium term.
  Member States should make
  effective
  investments in
  high-quality and inclusive
  education
  from an early age
  and vocational training systems while improving their effectiveness and efficiency to raise the
  knowhow and
  skill level of the workforce,
  while increasing the diversity of skills,
  allowing it to better anticipate and meet the rapidly changing needs of dynamic labour markets in an increasingly digital economy.
  To that end, the fact that ‘soft skills’ such as communication are becoming more important for a large number of occupations should be taken into account.

sustainable

quality

made available and accessible to all

There should be particular focus on health care, social services and transport services which are facing or will face staff shortages in the medium term.

effective

high-quality and inclusive

from an early age

knowhow and

while increasing the diversity of skills,

To that end, the fact that ‘soft skills’ such as communication are becoming more important for a large number of occupations should be taken into account.

Amendment 23

Amendment 23

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Annex — Guideline 6 — paragraph 1 a (new)

Annex — Guideline 6 — paragraph 1 a (new)

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| | Member States should promote entrepreneurship among young people inter alia by introducing optional entrepreneurship courses and encouraging the creation of student enterprises in high schools and colleges. Member States, in cooperation with local and regional authorities, should step up efforts to prevent young people from dropping out of school and to ensure a smoother transition from education and training to professional life, to improve access and remove barriers to high-quality adult learning for all with particular focus on high-risk groups and their needs, by offering retraining of skills when job losses and changes in the labour market necessitate active reintegration. Simultaneously Member States should implement active ageing strategies to enable healthy working up to the real retirement age. |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

Member States should promote entrepreneurship among young people inter alia by introducing optional entrepreneurship courses and encouraging the creation of student enterprises in high schools and colleges. Member States, in cooperation with local and regional authorities, should step up efforts to prevent young people from dropping out of school and to ensure a smoother transition from education and training to professional life, to improve access and remove barriers to high-quality adult learning for all with particular focus on high-risk groups and their needs, by offering retraining of skills when job losses and changes in the labour market necessitate active reintegration. Simultaneously Member States should implement active ageing strategies to enable healthy working up to the real retirement age.

Member States should promote entrepreneurship among young people inter alia by introducing optional entrepreneurship courses and encouraging the creation of student enterprises in high schools and colleges. Member States, in cooperation with local and regional authorities, should step up efforts to prevent young people from dropping out of school and to ensure a smoother transition from education and training to professional life, to improve access and remove barriers to high-quality adult learning for all with particular focus on high-risk groups and their needs, by offering retraining of skills when job losses and changes in the labour market necessitate active reintegration. Simultaneously Member States should implement active ageing strategies to enable healthy working up to the real retirement age.

Amendment 24

Amendment 24

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Annex — Guideline 6 — paragraph 1 b (new)

Annex — Guideline 6 — paragraph 1 b (new)

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| | While ensuring the necessary skills level requested by a continuously changing labour market and supporting education and training alongside programmes for adult learning, Member States should take into account that low-skills jobs are also needed and that employment opportunities are better for the high-skilled than for the medium- and low-skilled. |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

While ensuring the necessary skills level requested by a continuously changing labour market and supporting education and training alongside programmes for adult learning, Member States should take into account that low-skills jobs are also needed and that employment opportunities are better for the high-skilled than for the medium- and low-skilled.

While ensuring the necessary skills level requested by a continuously changing labour market and supporting education and training alongside programmes for adult learning, Member States should take into account that low-skills jobs are also needed and that employment opportunities are better for the high-skilled than for the medium- and low-skilled.

Amendment 25

Amendment 25

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Annex — Guideline 6 — paragraph 1 c (new)

Annex — Guideline 6 — paragraph 1 c (new)

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| | Access to affordable, high-quality, early childhood education and care should be a priority for comprehensive policies and investment coupled with family and parenting support and reconciliation measures helping parents to balance work and family life, as a contribution to preventing early school-leaving and increasing young people's chances on the labour market. |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

Access to affordable, high-quality, early childhood education and care should be a priority for comprehensive policies and investment coupled with family and parenting support and reconciliation measures helping parents to balance work and family life, as a contribution to preventing early school-leaving and increasing young people's chances on the labour market.

Access to affordable, high-quality, early childhood education and care should be a priority for comprehensive policies and investment coupled with family and parenting support and reconciliation measures helping parents to balance work and family life, as a contribution to preventing early school-leaving and increasing young people's chances on the labour market.

Amendment 26

Amendment 26

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Annex — Guideline 6 — paragraph 2

Annex — Guideline 6 — paragraph 2

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| High unemployment should be tackled and
  long-term unemployment prevented. The number of long-term unemployed should be
  significantly reduced
  by means of comprehensive and mutually reinforcing strategies, including the provision of
  specific
  active support to long-term unemployed to return to the labour market. The youth unemployment needs to be comprehensively addressed,
  including
  by equipping the relevant
  institutions
  with the necessary means to fully and consistently implement their national Youth Guarantee Implementation Plans. | The issue of unemployment, in particular
  long-term unemployment
  and regional high unemployment should be resolved effectively and promptly, as well as
  prevented
  through a mix of demand and supply-side measures
  . The number of long-term unemployed
  and the problem of skills mismatch and skill obsolescence
  should be
  addressed
  by means of comprehensive and mutually reinforcing strategies, including the provision of
  personalised needs-based
  active support
  and appropriate social protection schemes
  to long-term unemployed to return to the labour market
  in an informed and responsible manner
  . The youth unemployment needs to be comprehensively addressed,
  through an overall youth employment strategy. This includes investing in sectors that can create quality jobs for young people and
  by equipping the relevant
  actors such as youth support services, education and training providers, youth organisations and public employment services
  with the necessary means to fully and consistently implement their national Youth Guarantee Implementation Plans
  , but also by the rapid take-up of resources by Member States
  .
  Access to funding for those who choose to start a business should be facilitated by means of a wider availability of information, a reduction in excessive bureaucracy and possibilities to convert several months' unemployment benefits into an upfront start-up grant after presentation of a business plan and in compliance with national legislation. |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

High unemployment should be tackled and
  long-term unemployment prevented. The number of long-term unemployed should be
  significantly reduced
  by means of comprehensive and mutually reinforcing strategies, including the provision of
  specific
  active support to long-term unemployed to return to the labour market. The youth unemployment needs to be comprehensively addressed,
  including
  by equipping the relevant
  institutions
  with the necessary means to fully and consistently implement their national Youth Guarantee Implementation Plans.

High unemployment should be tackled and

significantly reduced

specific

including

institutions

The issue of unemployment, in particular
  long-term unemployment
  and regional high unemployment should be resolved effectively and promptly, as well as
  prevented
  through a mix of demand and supply-side measures
  . The number of long-term unemployed
  and the problem of skills mismatch and skill obsolescence
  should be
  addressed
  by means of comprehensive and mutually reinforcing strategies, including the provision of
  personalised needs-based
  active support
  and appropriate social protection schemes
  to long-term unemployed to return to the labour market
  in an informed and responsible manner
  . The youth unemployment needs to be comprehensively addressed,
  through an overall youth employment strategy. This includes investing in sectors that can create quality jobs for young people and
  by equipping the relevant
  actors such as youth support services, education and training providers, youth organisations and public employment services
  with the necessary means to fully and consistently implement their national Youth Guarantee Implementation Plans
  , but also by the rapid take-up of resources by Member States
  .
  Access to funding for those who choose to start a business should be facilitated by means of a wider availability of information, a reduction in excessive bureaucracy and possibilities to convert several months' unemployment benefits into an upfront start-up grant after presentation of a business plan and in compliance with national legislation.

The issue of unemployment, in particular

and regional high unemployment should be resolved effectively and promptly, as well as

through a mix of demand and supply-side measures

and the problem of skills mismatch and skill obsolescence

addressed

personalised needs-based

and appropriate social protection schemes

in an informed and responsible manner

through an overall youth employment strategy. This includes investing in sectors that can create quality jobs for young people and

actors such as youth support services, education and training providers, youth organisations and public employment services

, but also by the rapid take-up of resources by Member States

Access to funding for those who choose to start a business should be facilitated by means of a wider availability of information, a reduction in excessive bureaucracy and possibilities to convert several months' unemployment benefits into an upfront start-up grant after presentation of a business plan and in compliance with national legislation.

Amendment 27

Amendment 27

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Annex — Guideline 6 — paragraph 2 a (new)

Annex — Guideline 6 — paragraph 2 a (new)

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| | Member States should take into consideration local and regional disparities in drawing up and carrying out measures against unemployment and should work together with local employment services. |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

Member States should take into consideration local and regional disparities in drawing up and carrying out measures against unemployment and should work together with local employment services.

Member States should take into consideration local and regional disparities in drawing up and carrying out measures against unemployment and should work together with local employment services.

Amendment 28

Amendment 28

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Annex — Guideline 6 — paragraph 3

Annex — Guideline 6 — paragraph 3

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| Structural weaknesses in education and training systems should be addressed to ensure quality learning outcomes and prevent and tackle early school leaving. Member States should increase educational attainment
  and consider
  dual learning systems
  and
  upgrading professional training
  while at the same time increase opportunities for recognising skills acquired outside the formal education system
  . | Structural weaknesses in education and training systems should be addressed to ensure high-quality learning outcomes and prevent and tackle early school leaving
  , and promote an all-embracing, high-quality education from the most basic level onwards
  .
  This requires flexible educational systems with a focus on practice.
  Member States
  , in cooperation with local and regional authorities,
  should increase
  the quality of
  educational attainment
  by making it accessible to all, set up and improve
  dual learning systems
  , adapted to their needs, by
  upgrading professional training
  and existing frameworks such as europass, while ensuring, where necessary, appropriate retraining of skills and recognition of those acquired outside of the formal education system
  .
  Links between education and labour market should be strengthened, while ensuring that education is sufficiently broad to provide people with a solid basis for life-long employability. |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

Structural weaknesses in education and training systems should be addressed to ensure quality learning outcomes and prevent and tackle early school leaving. Member States should increase educational attainment
  and consider
  dual learning systems
  and
  upgrading professional training
  while at the same time increase opportunities for recognising skills acquired outside the formal education system
  .

and consider

and

while at the same time increase opportunities for recognising skills acquired outside the formal education system

Structural weaknesses in education and training systems should be addressed to ensure high-quality learning outcomes and prevent and tackle early school leaving
  , and promote an all-embracing, high-quality education from the most basic level onwards
  .
  This requires flexible educational systems with a focus on practice.
  Member States
  , in cooperation with local and regional authorities,
  should increase
  the quality of
  educational attainment
  by making it accessible to all, set up and improve
  dual learning systems
  , adapted to their needs, by
  upgrading professional training
  and existing frameworks such as europass, while ensuring, where necessary, appropriate retraining of skills and recognition of those acquired outside of the formal education system
  .
  Links between education and labour market should be strengthened, while ensuring that education is sufficiently broad to provide people with a solid basis for life-long employability.

, and promote an all-embracing, high-quality education from the most basic level onwards

This requires flexible educational systems with a focus on practice.

, in cooperation with local and regional authorities,

the quality of

by making it accessible to all, set up and improve

, adapted to their needs, by

and existing frameworks such as europass, while ensuring, where necessary, appropriate retraining of skills and recognition of those acquired outside of the formal education system

Links between education and labour market should be strengthened, while ensuring that education is sufficiently broad to provide people with a solid basis for life-long employability.

Amendment 29

Amendment 29

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Annex — Guideline 6 — paragraph 3 a (new)

Annex — Guideline 6 — paragraph 3 a (new)

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| | Member States should gear their training systems more closely to the labour market with a view to better transition from training to employment. In particular in the context of digitisation, and in terms of new technologies, green jobs and health care are essential. |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

Member States should gear their training systems more closely to the labour market with a view to better transition from training to employment. In particular in the context of digitisation, and in terms of new technologies, green jobs and health care are essential.

Member States should gear their training systems more closely to the labour market with a view to better transition from training to employment. In particular in the context of digitisation, and in terms of new technologies, green jobs and health care are essential.

Amendment 30

Amendment 30

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Annex — Guideline 6 — paragraph 4

Annex — Guideline 6 — paragraph 4

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| Barriers to
  labour market
  participation should
  be reduced, especially for women, older workers, young people,
  the disabled
  and legal migrants. Gender equality including equal pay must be ensured in the labour market as well as access to affordable quality early childhood education and care. | Discrimination on the labour market as well as with regard to access to the
  labour market
  need to
  be
  further
  reduced, especially for
  groups that face discrimination or exclusion, such as
  women, older workers, young people,
  people with disabilities
  and legal migrants. Gender equality including equal pay must be ensured in the labour market as well as access to affordable, high-quality early childhood education and care
  as well as the flexibility necessary to prevent the exclusion of those with breaks in their careers due to family responsibilities such as family carers. In this sense, the Women on Board Directive should be unblocked by the Member States. |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

Barriers to
  labour market
  participation should
  be reduced, especially for women, older workers, young people,
  the disabled
  and legal migrants. Gender equality including equal pay must be ensured in the labour market as well as access to affordable quality early childhood education and care.

Barriers to

participation should

the disabled

Discrimination on the labour market as well as with regard to access to the
  labour market
  need to
  be
  further
  reduced, especially for
  groups that face discrimination or exclusion, such as
  women, older workers, young people,
  people with disabilities
  and legal migrants. Gender equality including equal pay must be ensured in the labour market as well as access to affordable, high-quality early childhood education and care
  as well as the flexibility necessary to prevent the exclusion of those with breaks in their careers due to family responsibilities such as family carers. In this sense, the Women on Board Directive should be unblocked by the Member States.

Discrimination on the labour market as well as with regard to access to the

need to

further

groups that face discrimination or exclusion, such as

people with disabilities

as well as the flexibility necessary to prevent the exclusion of those with breaks in their careers due to family responsibilities such as family carers. In this sense, the Women on Board Directive should be unblocked by the Member States.

Amendment 31

Amendment 31

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Annex — Guideline 6 — paragraph 4 a (new)

Annex — Guideline 6 — paragraph 4 a (new)

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| | In this respect, Member States should take into account the fact that the rates of young persons not in employment, education or training (NEET) are higher for women than for men and that the NEET phenomenon is primarily due to an increase in youth unemployment but also to non-education linked inactivity. |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

In this respect, Member States should take into account the fact that the rates of young persons not in employment, education or training (NEET) are higher for women than for men and that the NEET phenomenon is primarily due to an increase in youth unemployment but also to non-education linked inactivity.

In this respect, Member States should take into account the fact that the rates of young persons not in employment, education or training (NEET) are higher for women than for men and that the NEET phenomenon is primarily due to an increase in youth unemployment but also to non-education linked inactivity.

Amendment 32

Amendment 32

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Annex — Guideline 6 — paragraph 5

Annex — Guideline 6 — paragraph 5

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| Member States should make a full use of European Social Fund and other Union funds support in order to improve employment, social inclusion, education
  and
  public administration. | Member States should make a full
  , effective and efficient
  use of European Social Fund and other Union funds support in order to
  combat poverty,
  improve
  quality
  employment, social inclusion, education, public administration
  and public services. The European Fund for Strategic Investments and its investment platforms should also be mobilised to ensure that quality jobs are created and workers are equipped with skills needed for the Union's transition towards a sustainable growth model. |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

Member States should make a full use of European Social Fund and other Union funds support in order to improve employment, social inclusion, education
  and
  public administration.

and

Member States should make a full
  , effective and efficient
  use of European Social Fund and other Union funds support in order to
  combat poverty,
  improve
  quality
  employment, social inclusion, education, public administration
  and public services. The European Fund for Strategic Investments and its investment platforms should also be mobilised to ensure that quality jobs are created and workers are equipped with skills needed for the Union's transition towards a sustainable growth model.

, effective and efficient

combat poverty,

quality

and public services. The European Fund for Strategic Investments and its investment platforms should also be mobilised to ensure that quality jobs are created and workers are equipped with skills needed for the Union's transition towards a sustainable growth model.

Amendment 33

Amendment 33

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Annex — Guideline 7 — paragraph 1

Annex — Guideline 7 — paragraph 1

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| Member States should reduce labour market segmentation. Employment protection rules and institutions should provide a suitable environment for recruitment while offering adequate levels of protection to those in employment and those seeking employment or employed on temporary contracts or independent work contracts. Quality employment should be ensured in terms of socio-economic security, education and training opportunities,
  working conditions (including health and safety)
  and work-life balance. | Member States should reduce labour market segmentation
  by tackling precarious employment, underemployment, undeclared labour and zero-hour contracts
  . Employment protection rules and institutions should provide a suitable environment for recruitment while offering adequate levels of protection to those in employment and those seeking employment or employed on temporary
  , part-time, atypical
  contracts or independent work contracts
  , by actively involving the social partners and by promoting collective bargaining
  . Quality employment should be ensured
  for all
  in terms of socio-economic security,
  durability, adequate wages, rights at work, decent workplace conditions (including health and safety), social security protection, gender equality,
  education and training opportunities
  . Therefore it is necessary to promote the entry of young people into the labour market, the reintegration of long-term unemployed
  and work-life balance
  , providing affordable care and modernising work organisation
  .
  Upward convergence in working conditions should be promoted across the Union. |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

Member States should reduce labour market segmentation. Employment protection rules and institutions should provide a suitable environment for recruitment while offering adequate levels of protection to those in employment and those seeking employment or employed on temporary contracts or independent work contracts. Quality employment should be ensured in terms of socio-economic security, education and training opportunities,
  working conditions (including health and safety)
  and work-life balance.

working conditions (including health and safety)

Member States should reduce labour market segmentation
  by tackling precarious employment, underemployment, undeclared labour and zero-hour contracts
  . Employment protection rules and institutions should provide a suitable environment for recruitment while offering adequate levels of protection to those in employment and those seeking employment or employed on temporary
  , part-time, atypical
  contracts or independent work contracts
  , by actively involving the social partners and by promoting collective bargaining
  . Quality employment should be ensured
  for all
  in terms of socio-economic security,
  durability, adequate wages, rights at work, decent workplace conditions (including health and safety), social security protection, gender equality,
  education and training opportunities
  . Therefore it is necessary to promote the entry of young people into the labour market, the reintegration of long-term unemployed
  and work-life balance
  , providing affordable care and modernising work organisation
  .
  Upward convergence in working conditions should be promoted across the Union.

by tackling precarious employment, underemployment, undeclared labour and zero-hour contracts

, part-time, atypical

, by actively involving the social partners and by promoting collective bargaining

for all

durability, adequate wages, rights at work, decent workplace conditions (including health and safety), social security protection, gender equality,

. Therefore it is necessary to promote the entry of young people into the labour market, the reintegration of long-term unemployed

, providing affordable care and modernising work organisation

Upward convergence in working conditions should be promoted across the Union.

Amendment 34

Amendment 34

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Annex — Guideline 7 — paragraph 1 a (new)

Annex — Guideline 7 — paragraph 1 a (new)

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| | Access to the labour market should facilitate entrepreneurship, sustainable job creation in all sectors, including green employment, and social care and innovation, in order to make the best use of people's skills, foster their lifelong development and encourage employee-driven innovation. |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

Access to the labour market should facilitate entrepreneurship, sustainable job creation in all sectors, including green employment, and social care and innovation, in order to make the best use of people's skills, foster their lifelong development and encourage employee-driven innovation.

Access to the labour market should facilitate entrepreneurship, sustainable job creation in all sectors, including green employment, and social care and innovation, in order to make the best use of people's skills, foster their lifelong development and encourage employee-driven innovation.

Amendment 35

Amendment 35

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Annex — Guideline 7 — paragraph 2

Annex — Guideline 7 — paragraph 2

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| Member States should closely involve
  National Parliaments and
  social partners in the design and implementation of relevant reforms and policies, in line with national practices, while supporting the improvement of the functioning and effectiveness of social dialogue at national level. | Member States should closely involve
  national parliaments,
  social partners
  , civil society organisations, regional and local authorities
  in the design and implementation of relevant reforms and policies, in line with
  the partnership principle and
  national practices, while supporting the improvement of the functioning and effectiveness of social dialogue at national level
  , especially in those countries with major problems of wage devaluation caused by recent deregulation of labour markets and weakness of collective bargaining
  . |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

Member States should closely involve
  National Parliaments and
  social partners in the design and implementation of relevant reforms and policies, in line with national practices, while supporting the improvement of the functioning and effectiveness of social dialogue at national level.

National Parliaments and

Member States should closely involve
  national parliaments,
  social partners
  , civil society organisations, regional and local authorities
  in the design and implementation of relevant reforms and policies, in line with
  the partnership principle and
  national practices, while supporting the improvement of the functioning and effectiveness of social dialogue at national level
  , especially in those countries with major problems of wage devaluation caused by recent deregulation of labour markets and weakness of collective bargaining
  .

national parliaments,

, civil society organisations, regional and local authorities

the partnership principle and

, especially in those countries with major problems of wage devaluation caused by recent deregulation of labour markets and weakness of collective bargaining

Amendment 36

Amendment 36

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Annex — Guideline 7 — paragraph 3

Annex — Guideline 7 — paragraph 3

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| Member States should
  strengthen
  active labour market policies by
  increasing
  their targeting, outreach, coverage and interplay with
  passive
  measures. These policies should aim at improving labour market
  matching
  and support sustainable transitions on the labour market, with public employment services delivering individualised support and implementing performance measurement systems. Member States should also ensure that their social protection systems effectively activate and enable those who can participate in the labour market, protect those (temporarily) excluded from the labour markets and/or unable to participate in it, and prepare individuals for potential risks, by investing in human capital. Member States should promote inclusive labour markets open to all and also put in place effective anti-discrimination measures. | Member States should
  ensure basic standards of quality of
  active labour market policies by
  improving
  their targeting, outreach, coverage and interplay with
  supporting
  measures
  such as social security
  . These policies should aim at improving labour market
  access, strengthening collective bargaining and social dialogue
  and support sustainable transitions on the labour market, with
  highly qualified
  public employment services delivering individualised support and implementing performance measurement systems. Member States should also ensure that their social protection systems effectively activate and enable those who can participate in the labour market, protect those (temporarily) excluded from the labour markets and/or unable to participate in it, and prepare individuals for potential risks
  and changing economic and social conditions
  , by investing in human capital.
  Member States should introduce, as one of the possible measures to reduce poverty and in accordance with national practice, a minimum income proportionate to their specific socio-economic situation.
  Member States should promote inclusive labour markets open to all and also put in place effective anti-discrimination measures. |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

Member States should
  strengthen
  active labour market policies by
  increasing
  their targeting, outreach, coverage and interplay with
  passive
  measures. These policies should aim at improving labour market
  matching
  and support sustainable transitions on the labour market, with public employment services delivering individualised support and implementing performance measurement systems. Member States should also ensure that their social protection systems effectively activate and enable those who can participate in the labour market, protect those (temporarily) excluded from the labour markets and/or unable to participate in it, and prepare individuals for potential risks, by investing in human capital. Member States should promote inclusive labour markets open to all and also put in place effective anti-discrimination measures.

strengthen

increasing

passive

matching

Member States should
  ensure basic standards of quality of
  active labour market policies by
  improving
  their targeting, outreach, coverage and interplay with
  supporting
  measures
  such as social security
  . These policies should aim at improving labour market
  access, strengthening collective bargaining and social dialogue
  and support sustainable transitions on the labour market, with
  highly qualified
  public employment services delivering individualised support and implementing performance measurement systems. Member States should also ensure that their social protection systems effectively activate and enable those who can participate in the labour market, protect those (temporarily) excluded from the labour markets and/or unable to participate in it, and prepare individuals for potential risks
  and changing economic and social conditions
  , by investing in human capital.
  Member States should introduce, as one of the possible measures to reduce poverty and in accordance with national practice, a minimum income proportionate to their specific socio-economic situation.
  Member States should promote inclusive labour markets open to all and also put in place effective anti-discrimination measures.

ensure basic standards of quality of

improving

supporting

such as social security

access, strengthening collective bargaining and social dialogue

highly qualified

and changing economic and social conditions

Member States should introduce, as one of the possible measures to reduce poverty and in accordance with national practice, a minimum income proportionate to their specific socio-economic situation.

Amendment 37

Amendment 37

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Annex — Guideline 7 — paragraph 4

Annex — Guideline 7 — paragraph 4

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| Mobility of workers should be ensured with an aim of exploiting the full potential of the European labour market, including by enhancing the portability of pensions and the recognition of qualifications. Member States should at the same time
  guard against abuses of the existing rules
  . | Mobility of workers should be ensured
  as a fundamental right and as a matter of free choice,
  with an aim of exploiting the full potential of the European labour market, including by enhancing the portability of pensions and the
  effective
  recognition of qualifications
  and skills and the elimination of red tape and other existing barriers
  . Member States should at the same time
  tackle the language barriers, improving training systems in this matter. Member States should also make an appropriate use of the EURES network in order to encourage worker mobility
  .
  Investment in regions experiencing labour outflows should be promoted to mitigate brain drain and encourage mobile workers to return. |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

Mobility of workers should be ensured with an aim of exploiting the full potential of the European labour market, including by enhancing the portability of pensions and the recognition of qualifications. Member States should at the same time
  guard against abuses of the existing rules
  .

guard against abuses of the existing rules

Mobility of workers should be ensured
  as a fundamental right and as a matter of free choice,
  with an aim of exploiting the full potential of the European labour market, including by enhancing the portability of pensions and the
  effective
  recognition of qualifications
  and skills and the elimination of red tape and other existing barriers
  . Member States should at the same time
  tackle the language barriers, improving training systems in this matter. Member States should also make an appropriate use of the EURES network in order to encourage worker mobility
  .
  Investment in regions experiencing labour outflows should be promoted to mitigate brain drain and encourage mobile workers to return.

as a fundamental right and as a matter of free choice,

effective

and skills and the elimination of red tape and other existing barriers

tackle the language barriers, improving training systems in this matter. Member States should also make an appropriate use of the EURES network in order to encourage worker mobility

Investment in regions experiencing labour outflows should be promoted to mitigate brain drain and encourage mobile workers to return.

Amendment 38

Amendment 38

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Annex — Guideline 7 a (new) — title

Annex — Guideline 7 a (new) — title

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| | Improving the quality and performance of education and training systems at all levels |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

Improving the quality and performance of education and training systems at all levels

Improving the quality and performance of education and training systems at all levels

Amendment 39

Amendment 39

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Annex — Guideline 7 a (new)

Annex — Guideline 7 a (new)

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| | Member States should make access to care and to affordable quality early childhood education a priority as both are important support measures for labour market actors and contribute to increasing the overall employment rate while supporting the individuals in their responsibilities. Member States should set up the comprehensive policies and investment needed to improve family and parenting support and reconciliation measures helping parents to balance work and family life, as a contribution to preventing early school leaving and increasing young people's chances on the labour market. |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

Member States should make access to care and to affordable quality early childhood education a priority as both are important support measures for labour market actors and contribute to increasing the overall employment rate while supporting the individuals in their responsibilities. Member States should set up the comprehensive policies and investment needed to improve family and parenting support and reconciliation measures helping parents to balance work and family life, as a contribution to preventing early school leaving and increasing young people's chances on the labour market.

Member States should make access to care and to affordable quality early childhood education a priority as both are important support measures for labour market actors and contribute to increasing the overall employment rate while supporting the individuals in their responsibilities. Member States should set up the comprehensive policies and investment needed to improve family and parenting support and reconciliation measures helping parents to balance work and family life, as a contribution to preventing early school leaving and increasing young people's chances on the labour market.

Amendment 40

Amendment 40

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Annex — Guideline 8 — title

Annex — Guideline 8 — title

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| Ensuring
  fairness
  , combatting poverty and promoting equal opportunities | Ensuring
  social justice
  , combatting poverty and promoting equal opportunities |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

Ensuring
  fairness
  , combatting poverty and promoting equal opportunities

fairness

Ensuring
  social justice
  , combatting poverty and promoting equal opportunities

social justice

Amendment 41

Amendment 41

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Annex — Guideline 8 — paragraph 1

Annex — Guideline 8 — paragraph 1

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| Member States should
  modernise
  their social protection systems to provide effective, efficient,
  and adequate
  protection throughout all stages of an individual’s life, ensuring fairness and addressing inequalities. There is a need for simplified
  and
  better targeted social policies
  complemented
  by affordable quality childcare and education, training and job assistance, housing support and
  accessible
  health care, access to basic services such as bank
  account
  and Internet and for action to prevent early school leaving and fight social exclusion. | Member States
  , in cooperation with local and regional authorities,
  should
  improve
  their social protection systems
  by ensuring basic standards
  to provide effective, efficient
  and sustainable
  protection throughout all stages of an individual’s life, ensuring
  life in dignity, solidarity, access to social protection, full respect of social rights,
  fairness and addressing inequalities
  as well as ensuring inclusion in order to eliminate poverty, in particular for people excluded from the labour market and for the more vulnerable groups
  . There is a need for simplified, better targeted
  and more ambitious
  social policies
  including
  by affordable, high-quality childcare and education,
  effective
  training and job assistance, housing support and
  high-quality
  health care
  accessible to all
  , access to basic services such as bank
  accounts
  and
  the
  Internet and for action to prevent early school leaving and fight
  extreme poverty,
  social exclusion
  , and more generally all forms of poverty. Child poverty in particular must be decisively tackled
  . |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

Member States should
  modernise
  their social protection systems to provide effective, efficient,
  and adequate
  protection throughout all stages of an individual’s life, ensuring fairness and addressing inequalities. There is a need for simplified
  and
  better targeted social policies
  complemented
  by affordable quality childcare and education, training and job assistance, housing support and
  accessible
  health care, access to basic services such as bank
  account
  and Internet and for action to prevent early school leaving and fight social exclusion.

modernise

and adequate

and

complemented

accessible

account

Member States
  , in cooperation with local and regional authorities,
  should
  improve
  their social protection systems
  by ensuring basic standards
  to provide effective, efficient
  and sustainable
  protection throughout all stages of an individual’s life, ensuring
  life in dignity, solidarity, access to social protection, full respect of social rights,
  fairness and addressing inequalities
  as well as ensuring inclusion in order to eliminate poverty, in particular for people excluded from the labour market and for the more vulnerable groups
  . There is a need for simplified, better targeted
  and more ambitious
  social policies
  including
  by affordable, high-quality childcare and education,
  effective
  training and job assistance, housing support and
  high-quality
  health care
  accessible to all
  , access to basic services such as bank
  accounts
  and
  the
  Internet and for action to prevent early school leaving and fight
  extreme poverty,
  social exclusion
  , and more generally all forms of poverty. Child poverty in particular must be decisively tackled
  .

, in cooperation with local and regional authorities,

improve

by ensuring basic standards

and sustainable

life in dignity, solidarity, access to social protection, full respect of social rights,

as well as ensuring inclusion in order to eliminate poverty, in particular for people excluded from the labour market and for the more vulnerable groups

and more ambitious

including

effective

high-quality

accessible to all

accounts

the

extreme poverty,

, and more generally all forms of poverty. Child poverty in particular must be decisively tackled

Amendment 42

Amendment 42

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Annex — Guideline 8 — paragraph 2

Annex — Guideline 8 — paragraph 2

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| For that purpose a variety of instruments should be used in a complementary manner, including labour activation enabling services and income support, targeted at individual needs. Social protection systems should be designed in a way that facilitate take up of all persons
  entitled
  , support investment in human capital, and help prevent, reduce and protect against poverty. | For that purpose a variety of instruments should be used in a complementary manner, including labour activation enabling services and income support, targeted at individual needs.
  In this respect, it is up to each Member State to set levels of minimum income in accordance with national practice and proportionate to the specific socio-economic situation in the Member State in question.
  Social protection systems should be designed in a way that facilitate
  access and
  take up of all persons
  in a non-discriminatory way,
  support investment in human capital, and help prevent, reduce and protect against poverty
  and social exclusion as well as against other risks such as loss of health or employment. There should be a particular focus on children in poverty due to their parents' long-term unemployment
  . |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

For that purpose a variety of instruments should be used in a complementary manner, including labour activation enabling services and income support, targeted at individual needs. Social protection systems should be designed in a way that facilitate take up of all persons
  entitled
  , support investment in human capital, and help prevent, reduce and protect against poverty.

entitled

For that purpose a variety of instruments should be used in a complementary manner, including labour activation enabling services and income support, targeted at individual needs.
  In this respect, it is up to each Member State to set levels of minimum income in accordance with national practice and proportionate to the specific socio-economic situation in the Member State in question.
  Social protection systems should be designed in a way that facilitate
  access and
  take up of all persons
  in a non-discriminatory way,
  support investment in human capital, and help prevent, reduce and protect against poverty
  and social exclusion as well as against other risks such as loss of health or employment. There should be a particular focus on children in poverty due to their parents' long-term unemployment
  .

In this respect, it is up to each Member State to set levels of minimum income in accordance with national practice and proportionate to the specific socio-economic situation in the Member State in question.

access and

in a non-discriminatory way,

and social exclusion as well as against other risks such as loss of health or employment. There should be a particular focus on children in poverty due to their parents' long-term unemployment

Amendment 43

Amendment 43

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Annex — Guideline 8 — paragraph 3

Annex — Guideline 8 — paragraph 3

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| The pension systems should be
  reformed in order to secure
  their sustainability and adequacy for women and men
  in a context of increasing longevity and demographic change, including by linking statutory retirement ages to life expectancy, by increasing effective retirement ages, and
  by
  developing complementary
  retirement
  savings
  . | The pension systems should be
  structured in a way that
  their sustainability
  , safety
  and adequacy for women and men
  is ensured by strengthening
  retirement
  schemes, aiming at a decent retirement income at least above the poverty level. The pension systems should provide for consolidation, further development and improvement of the three pillars of retirement saving systems. Linking retirement age to life expectancy is not the only instrument by means of which to tackle the challenge of aging. Reforms of pension systems should also, inter alia, reflect labour market trends, birth rate, demographic situation, health and wealth situation, working conditions and the economic dependency ratio. The best way to tackle the challenge of ageing is to increase the overall employment rate, building, inter alia, on social investments in active ageing. |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

The pension systems should be
  reformed in order to secure
  their sustainability and adequacy for women and men
  in a context of increasing longevity and demographic change, including by linking statutory retirement ages to life expectancy, by increasing effective retirement ages, and
  by
  developing complementary
  retirement
  savings
  .

reformed in order to secure

in a context of increasing longevity and demographic change, including by linking statutory retirement ages to life expectancy, by increasing effective retirement ages, and

developing complementary

savings

The pension systems should be
  structured in a way that
  their sustainability
  , safety
  and adequacy for women and men
  is ensured by strengthening
  retirement
  schemes, aiming at a decent retirement income at least above the poverty level. The pension systems should provide for consolidation, further development and improvement of the three pillars of retirement saving systems. Linking retirement age to life expectancy is not the only instrument by means of which to tackle the challenge of aging. Reforms of pension systems should also, inter alia, reflect labour market trends, birth rate, demographic situation, health and wealth situation, working conditions and the economic dependency ratio. The best way to tackle the challenge of ageing is to increase the overall employment rate, building, inter alia, on social investments in active ageing.

structured in a way that

, safety

is ensured by strengthening

schemes, aiming at a decent retirement income at least above the poverty level. The pension systems should provide for consolidation, further development and improvement of the three pillars of retirement saving systems. Linking retirement age to life expectancy is not the only instrument by means of which to tackle the challenge of aging. Reforms of pension systems should also, inter alia, reflect labour market trends, birth rate, demographic situation, health and wealth situation, working conditions and the economic dependency ratio. The best way to tackle the challenge of ageing is to increase the overall employment rate, building, inter alia, on social investments in active ageing.

Amendment 44

Amendment 44

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Annex — Guideline 8 — paragraph 4

Annex — Guideline 8 — paragraph 4

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| Member States should improve the accessibility, efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare and long term care systems, while safeguarding
  fiscal
  sustainability. | Member States should improve the
  quality, affordability,
  accessibility, efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare and long term care systems
  and welfare services as well as decent working conditions in the related sectors
  , while safeguarding
  the financial
  sustainability
  of these systems by improving the solidarity-based financing. |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

Member States should improve the accessibility, efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare and long term care systems, while safeguarding
  fiscal
  sustainability.

fiscal

Member States should improve the
  quality, affordability,
  accessibility, efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare and long term care systems
  and welfare services as well as decent working conditions in the related sectors
  , while safeguarding
  the financial
  sustainability
  of these systems by improving the solidarity-based financing.

quality, affordability,

and welfare services as well as decent working conditions in the related sectors

the financial

of these systems by improving the solidarity-based financing.

Amendment 45

Amendment 45

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Annex — Guideline 8 — paragraph 4 a (new)

Annex — Guideline 8 — paragraph 4 a (new)

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| | Member States should make a full use of European Social Fund and other Union funds support in order to fight poverty, social exclusion and discrimination, improve accessibility for people with disabilities to promote equality between women and men and improve public administration. |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

Member States should make a full use of European Social Fund and other Union funds support in order to fight poverty, social exclusion and discrimination, improve accessibility for people with disabilities to promote equality between women and men and improve public administration.

Member States should make a full use of European Social Fund and other Union funds support in order to fight poverty, social exclusion and discrimination, improve accessibility for people with disabilities to promote equality between women and men and improve public administration.

Amendment 46

Amendment 46

Proposal for a decision

Proposal for a decision

Annex — Guideline 8 — paragraph 4 b (new)

Annex — Guideline 8 — paragraph 4 b (new)

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| | The Europe 2020 headline targets, on the basis of which Member States set their national targets, taking into account their relative starting positions and national circumstances, aims to raise the employment rate for women and men aged 20 to 64 to 75 % by 2020; to reduce the drop-out rate to less than 10 %; to increase the share of 30 to 34-year-olds completing tertiary or equivalent education to at least 40 %; and to promote social inclusion, in particular through the reduction of poverty by aiming to lift at least 20 million people out of the risk of poverty and exclusion

   (1bis)

  . |

Text proposed by the Commission

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Amendment

The Europe 2020 headline targets, on the basis of which Member States set their national targets, taking into account their relative starting positions and national circumstances, aims to raise the employment rate for women and men aged 20 to 64 to 75 % by 2020; to reduce the drop-out rate to less than 10 %; to increase the share of 30 to 34-year-olds completing tertiary or equivalent education to at least 40 %; and to promote social inclusion, in particular through the reduction of poverty by aiming to lift at least 20 million people out of the risk of poverty and exclusion

   (1bis)

  .

The Europe 2020 headline targets, on the basis of which Member States set their national targets, taking into account their relative starting positions and national circumstances, aims to raise the employment rate for women and men aged 20 to 64 to 75 % by 2020; to reduce the drop-out rate to less than 10 %; to increase the share of 30 to 34-year-olds completing tertiary or equivalent education to at least 40 %; and to promote social inclusion, in particular through the reduction of poverty by aiming to lift at least 20 million people out of the risk of poverty and exclusion

1bis

.

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(1bis)  
  Council Decision 2010/707/EU of 21 October 2010 on guidelines for the employment policies of the Member States (OJ L 308, 24.11.2010, p. 46).

1bis

Council Decision 2010/707/EU of 21 October 2010 on guidelines for the employment policies of the Member States (OJ L 308, 24.11.2010, p. 46).

(1bis)  
  http://www.eesc.europa.eu/resources/docs/revenu-minimum_-etude-ose_-vfinale_en--2.pdf

1bis

http://www.eesc.europa.eu/resources/docs/revenu-minimum_-etude-ose_-vfinale_en--2.pdf

(1bis)  
  Council Decision 2010/707/EU of 21 October 2010 on guidelines for the employment policies of the Member States (OJ L 308, 24.11.2010, p. 46).

1bis

Council Decision 2010/707/EU of 21 October 2010 on guidelines for the employment policies of the Member States (OJ L 308, 24.11.2010, p. 46).

(1bis)  
  Population is defined as the number of people who are at risk of poverty and exclusion according to three indicators (at risk of poverty; material deprivation; jobless household), leaving Member States free to set their national targets on the basis of the most appropriate indicators, taking into account their national circumstances and priorities.

1bis

Population is defined as the number of people who are at risk of poverty and exclusion according to three indicators (at risk of poverty; material deprivation; jobless household), leaving Member States free to set their national targets on the basis of the most appropriate indicators, taking into account their national circumstances and priorities.

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