The EMF considers the unification of Europe as a unique chance to extend the fundamental values of peace, democracy and civil and human rights to all European countries. “To extend and further develop the European social model in all member states of the European Union must be the central aim in the process of European integration” said Peter Scherrer, General Secretary of the EMF. He congratulated in particular the EMF member organisations from the two countries and assured them that the European metalworkers will support trade unions in Bulgaria and Romania in defending social and labour rights.

The accession of Bulgaria and Romania is a result of the political and economic progress that both countries have achieved in the last few years. However, there are still some areas where both countries need to achieve further progress, particularly in areas of judicial reform, the fight against corruption and organised crime but also in relation to social policy and employment. The EMF calls on the national and European authorities to act in order to work on solutions for these matters. The EMF will continue to support its affiliates in both countries in this respect.

The last EU enlargement in May 2004 – like others before –proved that, if carefully managed, the extension of the European Union can be successful and create a win-win situation for all, i.e. both the former and the acceding Member States. One should be aware, however, that although enlargement stimulates economic growth and increases the role of the European Union in the world, it can only lead to complete success through a socially responsible policy approach.

The EMF is aware of the scepticism of metalworkers in the new and old Member States. The pressure of competition generated by large multinationals and the waves of privatisation on the one hand, plus threats of relocation, forced concessions on the other, are a major challenge for the European metalworkers.

It is only through a co-ordinated approach, combined with intensified cooperation of the metalworkers’ trade unions around Europe, that the challenges of the future can be successfully managed. The political, economical and social success of EU enlargement is indeed dependent on tighter and greater cooperation on the part of the trade unions and all political actors.

The process of EU enlargement is not at an end and further challenges are already visible in relation to the accession of Croatia, Macedonia and Turkey. The EMF will continue its work in support of European integration and will continue to defend the European social model as a constitutional pillar of the European Union.

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PRESS 1/2007

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