Commission adopts 2012 Work Programme for European Renewal - Montesquieu Institute

Brussles, 15 November 2011: The European Commission has adopted a Work Programme for the coming year, "Delivering European renewal".

Building a Europe of stability and responsibility

The completion of the financial sector reform in 2012 is one of the main aims of the programme, with a focus on investor protection. The Commission will also take steps to protect public revenues in areas like tax havens and VAT fraud.

Building a Union of growth and solidarity

As the Single Market approaches its 20th birthday, it remains the most important vehicle for growth and job creation. Next year will see a particular emphasis on making the digital single market work better, giving consumers and operators confidence in online transactions. A comprehensive Consumer Agenda will further set out more steps to help consumers to use the Single Market to best effect.

Other measures will focus on encouraging a jobs-rich recovery, and continuing to shape the sustainable economy vital for the long term. This will include measures on pensions, on vehicle emissions, and on water supplies.

Giving the EU an effective voice in the wider world

The EU's economic recovery and its political reach depend on a united EU as the best platform to protect and promote our interests and values. As well as promoting a wide range of trade agreements, the EU will continue to offer support for the peaceful and prosperous development in the Southern Mediterranean.

In all these areas, the Work Programmes underlines the need for the EU to be united, and to work together to ensure that proposals and ideas are translated into laws and practical implementation on the ground.

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