Brussels, 27/06/2008 (Agence Europe) - In theory, the year 2007 was marked by major reforms intended to make the European School system more effective and more open, it is stated in the annual report from the European Commission on how the system works. On the ground, the reality is very different: “The failings of the current system have become increasingly obvious, as has the unacceptable degree of negligence shown by some member states with regard to their obligations”, the Commission states, calling for “political support at the highest level” so that reforms are really implemented. The report points a finger of blame at the problem linked to the over-large number of pupils, which remains a cause of great concern, and which has brought about a policy of restrictive entry for new pupils. Some member states have also been named and shamed for not having fully honoured their commitments, pursuant to the convention at the base of the European School system signed by the EU27. For example, several problems have been noted relating not only to the lack of posted teachers (mainly British and Irish) but also to the general fall in the total number of postings. In its annual report assessing the situation for 2006, the Commission pointed out problems of dysfunction, which have persisted (see EUROPE 9516). Last year, it regularly tried to move forward with the reform process, assisted by several working groups tasked with defining realistic options for the system's future development. The steering committee (composed of past, current and future presidencies of the European Schools, as well as the Commission and Secretary General), for its part, urged member states to continue reforms and reflection in 2008. (I.L./transl.jl)