Brussels, 19/10/2006
The ETUC opposes attempts to remove the Charter of Fundamental Rights. For the European trade union movement, it is absolutely essential to have a strong social Europe and to retain the whole Charter as a key element of the Constitution.
The ETUC continues to support the Constitution, and in particular the core elements:
- the reinforcement of social values and principles (such as solidarity, equality and gender equality, non-discrimination, etc.),
- the social and employment objectives ('full employment', 'social market economy'),
- the recognition of the role of the social partners,
- the incorporation of the Charter of Fundamental Rights,
- the right of initiative for citizens,
- the legal base for services of general interest,
- the social clause.