Conference on tripartism

EU Presidency Conference on Tripartism in an enlarged European Union

Co-organised by the Danish Ministry of Employment and the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions

Hotel Comwell, Elsinore, Denmark

29-30 October 2002

• Introduction

• Background

• Programme

• Venue & contact details

See also conference information from the Danish Ministry of Employment.

Speech abstract - Erik Kjaergaard

Deputy Director of the Confederation of Danish Industries

Enhancing Capacities for Tripartism in the Candidate Countries
Sharing Experiences - Building Capacities

Since the Treaty of Rome the social partners have played an increasingly important role in the EU, especially with regard to social and employment policies. Through the Lisbon process the EU has set itself ambitious goals that require a competitive and flexible labour market. These goals can only be reached if the tripartite cooperation on EU level is successful.

The forthcoming enlargement of the EU, however, presents some challenges to the tripartite cooperation. If the social partners are going to continue to play a main role in the European political process, efforts have to be made to ensure an efficient social dialogue nationally in the EU member countries.

Taking on the role as a competent social partner requires a wide range of institutional capacities. By way of simplification, the necessary capacities can be illustrated in an abstract model comprising four factors, i.e. legitimacy, influence, functions and financing. These four factors each affect one another, creating a positive circle that develops the necessary capacities for entering into a social dialogue.

The Confederation of Danish Industries - DI - is the premier employers' federation and business organisation in Denmark, where there is a very long tradition of social dialogue and tripartite cooperation. In comparison with other countries, the social partners in Denmark regulate the majority of labour market conditions themselves and the state seldom intervenes.

In DI we have strategically sought to enhance our capacities by broadening our membership profile, establishing a trusting relationship with our trade union counterparts, developing the services we offer our members, and maximising our political influence at local, national and EU level.

Ensuring a competitive and flexible labour market in an enlarged EU presupposes a constructive tripartite cooperation based on strong social partners. There is a clear need for social partners to exchange experiences and expertise across borders. DI has taken active part in various Twinning projects aimed at enhancing tripartite capacities. The success of the European social and employment policies hinges on a successful tripartite cooperation.