Political Developments at European Level Andreas OGRINZ German Federation of Chemical Employers’ Associations Bundesarbeitgeberverband Chemie (BAVC) Bipartite workshop: “Connecting to EU Level Sectoral Social Dialogue: Lessons Learned and Perspectives for the Social Partners”, Turin, 9/10 December 2009

The new institutional architecture of the EU Overview The new institutional architecture of the EU The new European Commission Social policy items on the European agenda

1. The new institutional architecture of the EU Lisbon Treaty The EU is to be more democratic, transparent and efficient. A single legal personality: on 1 December 2009 the European Community was replaced by the European Union which succeeds it and takes over all rights and obligations. A President of the European Council: his main task is to ensure the preparation and continuity of the work of the European Council (which becomes an institution in its own right) and to facilitate consensus. A High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy: the “foreign minister” is responsible for steering foreign and common defence policy.

1. The new institutional architecture of the EU Lisbon Treaty (cont.) A new European External Action Service: it will work with the diplomatic services of the Member States. Double majority in the Council: 55 % of the Member States + 65 % of the population of the EU. Co-decision extended: this procedure (Council and European Parliament) has been extended to some forty fields  strengthening of the role of the Parliament. A new role for national parliaments: national parliaments will have eight weeks to examine – and to oppose – draft European legislative acts. Citizens’ right of initiative: a million citizens may sign a petition inviting the Commission to submit a proposal on any area of EU competence.

1. The new institutional architecture of the EU Lisbon Treaty (cont.) Social policy All in all no new competences at EU level Introduction of the “Open Method of Coordination” Role of social partners explicitly acknowledged Articles on social dialogue remain unchanged

2. The new European Commission Karel de Gucht: Trade Connie Hedegaard: Climate Action Günther Oettinger: Energy Olli Rehn: Economic and Monetary Affairs Michel Barnier: Internal Market and Services Antonio Tajani: Industry and Entrepreneurship Joaquín Almunia: Competition László Andor: Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion

2. The new European Commission “Political guidelines” of José Manuel Durão Barroso „Boosting the new sources of growth and social cohesion“ Europe needs new, sustainable sources of growth. This requires … a strengthening of its industrial base, a modern service sector, a thriving rural economy, a research and innovation revolution for a knowledge society, an employment agenda for a changing workplace (e.g. basic social rights), a Single Market fit for the 21st century.

3. Social policy items on the European agenda Maternity leave directive Revision aims to improve health and safety for pregnant workers, workers who have recently given birth or are breastfeeding Extension of minimum length of maternity leave from 14 to 18 weeks Free choice concerning the non-compulsory portion of the leave Principle of payment of full monthly salary Strengthening of protection against dismissal Co-decision (Council of Ministers and European Parliament): first reading under way Responsible committees: Women’s Rights and Gender Equality Committee (FEMM), Employment and Social Affairs Committee (EMPL) First FEMM reported rejected by the plenary on 6 May 2009 EMPL vote expected on 27 January, FEMM vote on 23 February, plenary vote at the beginning of March 2010

3. Social policy items on the European agenda European Works Councils (EWC) directive Revision aims to strengthen EWCs and to give employees more information and consultation rights on company decisions at European level Adopted on 23 April 2009 by the Council of Ministers (co-decision with the European Parliament) Basis: common position of European social partners (Summer 2008) Transposition into national law until June 2011

3. Social policy items on the European agenda Working time directive Revision aims to establish clear rules on working time (e.g. maximum weekly working time) in Europe Conciliation procedure between Council of Ministers and European Parliament failed on 28 April 2009; main reasons: Opt-out On-call time New Commission proposal to be expected in the first half of 2010

3. Social policy items on the European agenda Other items on the political agenda Anti-discrimination directive Consultation on “EU 2020” strategy Political activities on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) at different levels Revision of the Seveso directive Legislation on nanotechnology?

Thank you for your attention Andreas OGRINZ Head of European Affairs German Federation of Chemical Employers’ Associations (BAVC)