Copyright 2007 – Biz/ed The European Union’s Role in Social and Environmental Policy BTEC Business
Copyright 2007 – Biz/ed 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
Copyright 2007 – Biz/ed 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: htm
Copyright 2007 – Biz/ed 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?
Copyright 2007 – Biz/ed 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
Copyright 2007 – Biz/ed What does the EU do about this? Identifies areas requiring EU action Gathers information and debates Reaches agreement amongst member states
Copyright 2007 – Biz/ed 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
Copyright 2007 – Biz/ed 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
Copyright 2007 – Biz/ed 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