The European Union’s Role in Social and Environmental Policy

Why should the EU get involved? Many areas of life have a regional as well as national focus The environment and social policy are two such areas International agreements on the environment, e.g. Kyoto Protocol There is greater importance because of the EU’s enlargement

EU Enlargement Growth of the EU on 1st May 2004 from 15 to 25 member states Protection of individuals, consumers and businesses is needed More on Biz/ed at:

Any Examples? If one member state’s environment becomes degraded, it affects other member states, e.g. pollution from the seas or air What about social policy? Why does this need a European focus?

Social Policy If one member state has fewer employment rights than others, then: workers are unfairly treated firms in other states are at a cost disadvantage the EU economy suffers

What does the EU do about this? Identifies areas requiring EU action Gathers information and debates Reaches agreement amongst member states

What then? It issues a ‘Directive’ or an instruction to member states’ governments to take action The member states make law to enforce the EU’s Directive The EU reports on progress made

Is that it? No! The whole process depends on detailed negotiation and debate at EU level The European Council of member states reach an agreement Member states may receive special exemptions

What next? Go to the ‘Activity’ to find out more about EU involvement in these two areas You’ll be looking at the drive in Europe to recycle greater quantities of waste And the fight for lower working hours in the UK