Following the accession of Bulgaria and Romania in 2007, further challenges to European integration are already visible in relation to the accession of Croatia, Macedonia, Turkey and other countries. The EMF and its member organisations consider that the continuing process of EU enlargement must ensure that economic integration goes hand in hand with the social integration of the New Member States and the candidate countries. “Further accession must contribute to social cohesion,” stated the EMF’s General Secretary, Peter Scherrer. ”It is only by maintaining a high level of social and economic standards that European enlargement can be a tangible success.”

During the conference it was made clear that trade unions can and should actively influence industrial and social policy in their respective countries with a view to securing sustainable development, economic growth and more and better employment. The experience of the New Member States has shown that trade unions do indeed have a very important role to play in the enlargement process.

The representatives of the trade unions of the EMF member organisations discussed ways and means to increase regional co-operation and expressed their support for an ambitious work plan for the regional network of trade unions in South-Eastern Europe for the next few years.

Press 45/2007

______________

The EMF is the representative body defending the interests of workers in the European metal industry. The EMF has a mandate for the external representation and coordination of the metalworkers' unions and a mandate to engage in bargaining at European level.

For further information please contact:
Editor, Peter Scherrer, EMF General Secretary, Tel.: + 32 2 227 10 16

Conference website.