A competitiveness compass for the EU: where do social objectives fit?

The European Commission's recent communication, "A Competitiveness Compass for the EU," emphasises the need to boost Europe's economic strengths to maintain its global standing. It is driven by the analysis of Mario Draghi’s report on the future of European competitiveness. While the document primarily focuses on economic, technological advancements and increased security, it also underscores the importance of Europe's unique social market economy, which inherently includes considerations for social inclusion and equality. However, the strong emphasis on competitiveness raises concerns that social priorities risk being overshadowed by market-driven objectives. And here is where EASPD’s priority will lie, to ensure that social priorities, particularly for persons with disabilities and their support services, remain at the forefront.
For EASPD and its members this mention on a social market economy is significant. The Commission acknowledges that Europe's competitiveness is intertwined with its social model, suggesting that economic growth should not come at the expense of social fairness. This perspective highlights growth that benefits all citizens, including those with disabilities.
Furthermore, the Commission's commitment to empowering people as a means to increase competitiveness indicates support for initiatives that are quite relevant to EASPD and its members:
- The Competitiveness Compass acknowledges the power of public procurement as a driver for sustainable and inclusive economic growth.
- The European Commission’s commitment to refine State Aid rules presents an opportunity to ensure that public funding supports sectors that drive social impact, such as the disability care and support sector.
- The Quality Jobs Roadmap is a key initiative aimed at improving working conditions across Europe. This is crucial both for addressing the disability employment gap but also improving the working conditions in the social care and support sector.
- The Commission’s push for affordable and sustainable housing recognises the importance of housing as a fundamental right. It presents an opportunity to ensure accessibility for persons with disabilities while addressing the shortage of adapted housing across Europe.
- The Union of Skills Initiative highlights the importance of lifelong learning and upskilling and reskilling to maintain Europe's competitiveness.
EASPD is and will be engaging in these, among other, EU-level initiatives to ensure that we can shape a future where economic progress and competitiveness also means greater accessibility, social inclusion, independence and dignity for all, including for persons with disabilities. Europe’s progress should leave no one behind.
For more information, access the full Competitiveness Compasshere.