EU Social Systems Strained Under Pandemic Pressure
In the face of the unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, European Union (EU) member states have taken significant steps to support their citizens, according to various studies and reports. One such study, to be published by the Brussels research institute "Etui" this Thursday, is set to delve deeper into the economic impact of the crisis on EU member states' social systems.
While specific details of the Etui study are yet to be released, its focus on the social and economic effects of COVID-19 in Europe aligns with previous research conducted by the European Trade Union Institute (ETUI). Previous studies by ETUI have explored themes such as labor markets, social dialogue, and welfare systems.
A relevant study, though conducted by different research institutes, examines social dialogue in Italy and Spain during COVID-19. This study highlights how crisis corporatism and institutional power relations influenced the protection of vulnerable groups via tripartite agreements and social dialogue mechanisms.
In the meantime, it is clear that many EU member states have taken action to support their citizens. For instance, in 20 countries, governments have reduced the prescribed waiting period for sick pay and parental leave. Furthermore, in 24 member states, unemployment and social assistance have been made more generous, with amounts or duration increased and conditions for receipt reduced.
The studies and reports suggest that the COVID-19 crisis has had a significant impact on the social systems of EU member states, necessitating the implementation of various support measures. Some reports even indicate that the crisis has overwhelmed these systems.
As we await the publication of the Etui study, it is evident that EU member states are adapting their social systems to navigate the challenges posed by the pandemic. The study is expected to provide a comprehensive analysis of member-state responses, the role of social dialogue, social system adaptations, and lessons learned for future crisis preparedness.
[1] Source: Social Dialogue in Italy and Spain during COVID-19, ILO, Eurofound, and ETUI (2020). Available at: https://www.ilo.org/wcmsp5/groups/public/---ed_protect/---protrav/---ilo_aids/documents/publication/wcms_765964.pdf
- The upcoming Etui study, focusing on the economic impact of the COVID-19 crisis on EU member states' social systems, follows the footsteps of previous research conducted by the European Trade Union Institute (ETUI) on themes such as labor markets, social dialogue, and welfare systems.
- Politicians and finance experts are closely monitoring the impact of the COVID-19 crisis on the business sector and general-news headlines, as many EU member states are adapting their economic and social policy to navigate the challenges posed by the pandemic, with studies indicating that these systems have been significantly affected and, in some cases, overwhelmed.
