Employment, Social Policy, Health and Consumer Affairs Council

Employment, Social Policy, Health and Consumer Affairs Council (Employment and Social policy), 15/03/2018, 15 March 2018

Main results

The Council discussed the future of social Europe post-2020. Ministers set out their views on how future employment and social policies can be designed to increase social and economic convergence. They also exchanged views on how to address the impact of the changes to the labour market as a result of digitalisation. This ministerial debate will contribute to the wider debate on the future of Europe.

Ministers reiterated their commitment to a Union which creates more opportunities for upward social development and economic growth, and where employment and social standards converge. Adequate investments are needed to help create more jobs, enhance social cohesion, and encourage mobility, education and training for everyone. Biser Petkov, Minister for Labour and Social Policies of Bulgaria and President of the Council

The Council held a policy debate on how to close the gender pay gap, which is one of the aims of the European Social Pillar. Ministers discussed ways of improving pay transparency across the EU and exchanged views on those national measures which have been most effective in reducing horizontal and vertical gender segregation in the labour market.

The Council adopted a recommendation setting out a European framework for quality and effective apprenticeships. The aim of the framework is to encourage the development of a highly skilled and qualified workforce which is responsive to the labour market.

On the European Semester 2018, the Council adopted conclusions on the annual growth survey and the joint employment report which together provide political guidance in the areas of employment and social policy. The Commission presented to the Council an overview of the 2018 country reports.

The Council endorsed the Employment Committee's key messages regarding the implementation of the Youth Guarantee.

The Council took stock of preparations for the Tripartite Social Summit of 21 March which will have as its main theme: "Delivering on the European Pillar of Social Rights".

Meeting files

Preparatory documents

Outcome documents

Press releases

Quality and effective apprenticeships: Council adopts European framework
- 15/03/2018

Press information

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