The Party of European Socialists (PES) is preparing its manifesto for the European elections, which it will adopt at a congress in Rome in early March (see EUROPE 13323/23). The congress will officially launch the campaign of the current European Commissioner for Employment and Social Rights, Nicolas Schmit, who will be officially named as the lead candidate (‘Spitzenkandidat’) of the European socialist family.
According to a draft manifesto seen by EUROPE, the PES will propose ‘20 commitments for our common candidate and our parties’, for a Europe based in particular on the right to quality jobs with fair wages by guaranteeing workers’ rights, strengthening collective bargaining and democracy at work.
It should advocate a new ‘Green and Social Deal’ to enable a socially just transition, capable of providing clean, secure and affordable energy while creating quality jobs. A strong democracy, where the rule of law is respected by all, and a strong and competitive European economy are also highlighted.
These 20 commitments are grouped under three main headings, according to this provisional document: solutions for a better quality of life, solutions for open and democratic societies, and solutions for a fairer world.
As employment rates rise in Europe, “more jobs must mean better jobs and fair wages. Salaries must rise and boost workers’ purchasing power against inflation and the rising cost of living”, reads the draft manifesto.
“Our next battles are combating in-work poverty, precarious work; closing gender gaps by 2030, regulating AI, reducing working time, making work safe, ensuring the right to disconnect”, says the provisional text.
The European socialists are also expected to call for a protocol on social progress to be annexed to the European Treaties.
The draft also states that “we want a strengthened European Labour Authority” to combat work-related crime and exploitation.
The acquisition of skills to respond to the energy transitions will also be a campaign theme. “Social justice and climate justice are interconnected: the most vulnerable people are paying the highest price for the climate emergency. Climate neutrality must be a force for social progress”, the manifesto also stresses.
On the rule of law, the draft text stresses that far right and populist movements threaten democratic institutions as well as the rights of women, minorities and vulnerable groups, migrants, trade unions and LGBTIQ communities.
“We want clear rules and sanctions, using all available tools to ensure that no EU funding reaches autocratic governments”, adds the draft manifesto. (Original version in French by Solenn Paulic)