"The European welfare model is more effective than ever, but it must be improved to face the challenges of globalisation": after a survey submitted a few days ago, the EU Commission organised an international conference in Brussels on 16th April to discuss the economic, social and institutional implications of the globalisation processes and "how to turn them into an opportunity for the European Union". The commissioner for social affairs and employment Vladimir Spidla explains: "Many European citizens are worried about their jobs and their pensions. But a strong welfare model and a global economy are not mutually exclusive; actually they have to move at the same pace. If we get ready, invest and adapt, globalisation will become a win-win situation without of a loser". (continued)
