26 October 2005

In this Discussion Paper, Professor Loukas Tsoukalis argues that for the EU to be an effective agent of reform, a stronger caring dimension is necessary. The Commission’s proposal to set up a Globalisation Adjustment Fund is a step in this direction addressed to those who suffer from globalisation and economic restructuring, thereby also refuting the commonly held argument that EU institutions are exclusively concerned with market liberalization. “Why we need a Globalisation Adjustment Fund” was mentioned by the President of the European Council, Mr. Tony Blair in his speech to the European Parliament on 26th October 2005. It has been subsequently circulated by the UK Presidency as a Discussion Paper.