With the advent of the Economic and Monetary Union (EMU), European integration is entering an important new phase. In the social area as well, Europe faces the challenge of a drive towards innovation. The essential ingredients of this are, firstly, a reassessment of responsibilities, as between the Member States and the Union, and between public institutions and private organisations. Secondly, the formulation of common interests and priorities, and the application of new instruments of policy coordination. Lastly, and also of vital importance, is the development of new forms of cooperation with and between the social partners, both in the Member States and at the European level.
International Journal of Comparative Labour Law and Industrial Relations