Topic 2 Flashcards
what are the difference between the EU and US models?
The EU model differs from the US model as there are common values of equality and solidarity, as well as free and cheap access to education and healthcare. Additionally, within the EU model, social policies are well developed.
what aspects does a ‘MODEL’ include?
A model is a way of solving a problem. in order to have a model you need:
1) a vision about what you want
2) competence: authority to make decisions
3) individuals who use the power to implement the visions.
How does the author describe the concept of ‘social’?
They define ‘social’ in the material sense which includes issues involving work, employment, wages and working conditions. they also describe ‘social’ in the social security sense which encompasses the unemployed, housing and education.
does the EU have a strong social vision?
The EU has a strong social vision which is demonstrated through art 153 TFEU. some of the goals laid down here include: proper social protection and improved working conditions.
why does the EU have insufficient competence to develop social policies?
The EU can only act within the competences granted by member states, and these competences have to be exercised in the way recommended by the Treaty, which makes the European social model weak and insufficient. Also, unanimity between the 27 member states is extremely difficult.
what are the fundamental flaws in the social dialogue at the EU level?
‘European competence’ is lacking.
There are few agreements at European level because agreements can only get an official sanction and be made legally binding according to the competence rules of the EU, where qualified majority or unanimity in the Council is required, which is very difficult.
what are the conclusions regarding the ESM?
One cannot say that there is a European social model, this is because the biggest flaws are: the lack of competence, and the social model has no political will to increase the social competence within the EU. A major consequence of the lack of a European social model is that there is no European labour law system. Therefore, the European social model is a myth as it does not exist at the European or national level. In order for a social model to be created, the member states should strive for greater competence.
