Recent statements by Barroso, announcing a possible revision of the Bolkestein Directive by the Commission, sow doubts about the anticipated agenda. While these statements by the Commission’s President have been triggered by the growing pressure exerted by progressive forces within civil society, trade unions and political parties in Europe, we need to exercise caution. We do not as yet know which direction this revision will take!

If the text goes back to the Commission drawing board, it is then up to us to make our voices heard by every possible means. As things stand, various committees within the European Parliament are studying the initial text of the draft Bolkestein Directive. This draft will be on the agenda of the Competitiveness Council of the 7th and 8th of March of this year. The date of June 2005, fixed by the Commission for its first reading before the European Parliament, remains unchanged.

Within this context, the Stop Bolkestein campaign is therefore as topical as ever.

Clearly, the more Europeans join forces against this draft Directive at grassroots level, the greater the chances of success of those fighting it within their national organs and/or within the European organs.

Therefore, on the sidelines of the spring European Council, the trade unions, associations, and social movements will be rallying together en masse in Brussels on the 19th of March. The slogans will bring up issues such as the Lisbon strategy, working time, employment, in short Social Europe and opposition to the draft Bolkestein Directive.

More information:  www.stopbolkestein.be

See also: ETUC Euromanif