Politics
Stop the race to the bottom: LEFT MEPs lead the charge for fair working conditions
On 1 October, over 1,000 essential workers from nine EU countries will rally in front of the European Parliament in Brussels, calling for urgent reforms to the EU’s public procurement rules. The Left stands in solidarity with these workers, advocating for stronger collective bargaining rights, improved working conditions, and public contracts that prioritise quality services over corporate profits.
Left MEP Li Andersson (Vasemmistoliitto, Finland), Chair of the Committee on Employment and Social affairs in the European Parliament:
“Competitiveness threatens to turn into a race to the bottom in terms of workers’ rights. Therefore we need better public procurement rules and strong emphasis on social criteria. We must ensure good, healthy and safe jobs for the people in Europe. When using public money, we must set an example – as we must have policies that strengthen the European Social Pillar, it’s also our responsibility to promote collective bargaining.”
Across Europe, millions of workers rely on public contracts for their livelihoods. Yet, research from UNI Europa exposes a troubling reality: half of public tenders in the EU are awarded solely based on the lowest price, disregarding the social impact on workers and communities. This practice flies in the face of the European Commission’s commitment to improving job quality and expanding collective bargaining to secure fair wages and better working conditions for all workers.
As European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen gears up to revise the EU Public Procurement Directive, essential workers are making their voices heard, especially after the glaring omission of a portfolio dedicated to quality jobs and social rights.
This is a pivotal moment – a chance to finally address the needs of the very people who make these services possible.
The Left unequivocally opposes this broken system of public procurement that puts corporate greed ahead of workers’ livelihoods. Europe must no longer be driven by deregulation and profit-hungry corporations; instead, it should be shaped by robust public investment, the protection of workers’ rights, and an unwavering commitment to social and environmental justice.
Author
Politics
COP29: EU to support continued global climate action and push for ambitious finance and investment goals
DISCLAIMER OPINIONS: The opinions of the authors or reproduced in the articles are the ones of those stating them and it is their own responsibility. Should you find any incorrections you can always contact the newsdesk to seek a correction or right of replay.
DISCLAIMER TRANSLATIONS: All articles in this site are published in English. The translated versions are done through an automated process known as neural translations. If in doubt, always refer to the original article. Thank you for understanding.
DISCLAIMER PHOTOS: We mostly used photos images that are readily available online, from free sources, or from the people promoting the news. If by any chance it happens that we have used one of your copyrighted photos, please do not hesitate to contact us and we will take it down without question. We do not make profits as this is a not for profit project to give voice to the voiceless while giving them a platform to be informed also of general news, and it is completely free.
Author
European Commission President emphasizes transatlantic ties, economic resilience, and defense preparedness as EU leaders focus on competitive, sustainable, and secure Europe
At the European Political Community (EPC) meeting in Budapest, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen outlined a strategic vision for Europe’s future, emphasizing transatlantic relations, economic resilience, and defense preparedness.
Von der Leyen began by congratulating Donald J. Trump on his recent electoral victory, expressing eagerness to strengthen the transatlantic bond. This gesture underscores the EU‘s commitment to robust relations with the United States, a key ally in addressing global challenges.
The President highlighted Europe‘s unity in overcoming recent crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the energy challenges stemming from Russia’s war in Ukraine. She stressed the importance of continued collaboration to navigate future challenges.
Central to her address were three strategic priorities:
- Joint Plan for Competitiveness, Digitalization, and Decarbonization: Von der Leyen referenced the Draghi Report, authored by former Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi, which calls for substantial EU investments to enhance competitiveness and address climate goals. The report recommends annual investments of €750 billion to €800 billion to keep pace with global competitors like the U.S. and China. Euronews
- Reducing Overdependencies and Leveling the Economic Playing Field: The President emphasized the need to mitigate Europe‘s reliance on external entities, fostering a more balanced economic environment. This aligns with Draghi’s recommendations for a comprehensive industrial strategy to prevent the EU from lagging behind global competitors. Financial Times
- Enhancing Defense Capabilities and Preparedness: Drawing on the Niinistö Report by former Finnish President Sauli Niinistö, von der Leyen advocated for bolstering Europe’s defense mechanisms. The report suggests that the EU allocate 20% of its budget to security and crisis preparedness, addressing geopolitical tensions and climate change risks. Financial Times
Von der Leyen’s address reflects a proactive approach to Europe’s future, building on expert insights to navigate complex global dynamics. Her call to action underscores the EU’s commitment to unity and strategic planning in the face of evolving challenges.
Author
DISCLAIMER OPINIONS: The opinions of the authors or reproduced in the articles are the ones of those stating them and it is their own responsibility. Should you find any incorrections you can always contact the newsdesk to seek a correction or right of replay.
DISCLAIMER TRANSLATIONS: All articles in this site are published in English. The translated versions are done through an automated process known as neural translations. If in doubt, always refer to the original article. Thank you for understanding.
DISCLAIMER PHOTOS: We mostly used photos images that are readily available online, from free sources, or from the people promoting the news. If by any chance it happens that we have used one of your copyrighted photos, please do not hesitate to contact us and we will take it down without question. We do not make profits as this is a not for profit project to give voice to the voiceless while giving them a platform to be informed also of general news, and it is completely free.
Author
Who Has Won Control of the House of Representatives in the 2024 Election?
Does Matt Gaetz Have Kids? About Trump’s Attorney General Nominee’s Family
Is Matt Gaetz a Lawyer? Everything About His Education and Background
-
Sports4 days agoJuventus, Thiago Motta enjoys derby victory
-
EU & the World2 days agoTony Todd’s Wife: Was the Late ‘Candyman’ Star Married?
-
Sports2 days agoATP Finals, Jannik Sinner and all the combinations for the semifinals
-
EU & the World2 days ago‘Outer Banks’ Season 5: Release Date, Plot & Everything We Know
-
Politics2 days agoCOP29: EU to support continued global climate action and push for ambitious finance and investment goals
-
EU & the World2 days agoWhat Did Tony Todd Die From? ‘Candyman’ Actor’s Cause of Death
-
Sports2 days agoATP Finals, Zverev doesn’t betray in opener: Rublev knocked out in two sets
-
EU & the World2 days agoTony Todd’s Net Worth: How Much the Late ‘Candyman’ Star Made in His Career
