Globalisation and the emerging information society are transforming our working patterns, our work organisation, the demand for skills. The factor that will make the difference in terms of people's experience in this fast-moving and challenging environment is adaptability. However, this also means striking a new balance between the flexibility that companies must have and the security that people need to be effective and confident workers. It means harnessing the potential of work organisation and new technology while at the same time making the workplace a safe, healthy place in which people enjoy decent working standards. Poverty and social exclusion persist.
Many people continue to suffer discrimination, inequality and poor health.
Our social protection systems are the cornerstone of European social model. The challenge here is to adapt those systems so as to meet existing demand in ways that are cost-effective but which respond to new needs and changed circumstances. At the heart of this approach to European social policy is a new strategy on employment. At the Amsterdam Council of June 1997 Heads of State and Government reached an historic agreement. Employment is now a matter of common European concern and the EU is mandated to co-ordinate Member State employment policies.