Pensions must be not only economically sustainable but also socially sustainable. We must consult widely on these questions. Social dialogue will have a defining role to play in the political discussion on these reforms. The problems are serious enough to concern all fifteen member states and important enough for all EU citizens to be heard. The analysis of pensions systems should gradually include the candidate countries since the same considerations apply to them as to the present member states, in particular the link between social protection systems, economic performance and employment.
Pension systems are the competence of member states.
However, Article 2 of the EC Treaty states that the Community's tasks include promotion of a high level of social protection.