Anthropologists have increased our understanding of different cultural phenomena, linguists have explored the functions of language, scholars of religion have penetrated the mysteries of different beliefs, and philosophers have contributed to a better knowledge of the development of human values and thinking. And I am sure there is much more to be found out in all these areas of knowledge. Enlargement presents a historic opportunity to unite a continent that has been divided for many years and to consolidate peace, freedom, democracy and prosperity in Europe. The fight for jobs has long been a Swedish priority. Over the past few years the unemployment rate in the European Union has dropped from 11 per cent of the labour force to nearly 8 per cent, but Europe must keep up the pressure.
Research plays an important role in all three fields.
Research is becoming increasingly important for economic growth, employment and the renewal of society along ecologically sustainable lines. By being open to researchers and scientists from candidate countries and other non-EU countries in Europe, the European Union's education and research programmes are already making an active contribution to linking together the whole of Europe. The possibilities of a sustainable future, of a clean environment and of overcoming threats of drastic ecological and climatic change are dependent upon the successful collaboration of natural and social scientists. Exploring how European enlargement may vitalise both democracy and a sense of a common European heritage and future is an important task for researchers in social science and the humanities. As I mentioned earlier, a joint informal meeting of Ministers of Education and Research will be held in Uppsala on 1-3 March.