Increased social inequality in Eu

The first annual review of employment and social developments in Europe published by the European Commission concluded that a combination of employment of policies and social work is needed to ensure job-rich recovery term.

The review examined the patterns of poverty and social exclusion in Europe and the phenomenon of poverty caused by poorly paid work, they are all determinants of health inequalities in Europe.

The report shows that poverty remains high, given that 115 million Europeans (23% of the population) were at risk of poverty and social exclusion in 2010.

The figure is more than reported in previous years.

Rates reach 41% in Bulgaria and Romania, 38% in Latvia and 33% in Lithuania.

35% of Bulgarian population faces severe material deprivation, while in Romania the percentage reaches 31%, in Latvia 27%.

The risk of poverty and social exclusion in EU countries Source:Eurostat. (click to enlarge)

Report says it should be paid particular attention to the fact that over 20% of children under 18 years are at risk of poverty, given that Bulgarian and Romanian children grow up in a state of severe poverty, 37% and 36%.

The results showed that the economic crisis worsened the structural weakness of Europe, such as income inequality and loss of average paid jobs, particularly manufacturing and construction industry.

The report also shows that although the durability and quality are at stake, a slight increase was observed in the so-called white sector (health and social care), particularly regarding women and older workers.

Exclusion from the labor prevails in the north and west

The review underlines the fact that while Eastern Europeans often faced with severe material deprivation in northern and western member states exclusion from labor market prevails.

--fb1Elderly (EU average 16%), single parents (37%) and households with low labor intensity are at particular risk of poverty and social exclusion.

Over 8% of people who have jobs are at risk of poverty caused by poorly paid workers, so-called "poor workers".

According to the report , it is very important to see how social transfers have an impact on poverty caused by poorly paid work, being able to reduce the EU average of 18% to over 8%. But practice is not equal across the EU.

The review showed in particular that, although inequality between social classes decreased or increased only slightly more unequal countries in terms of history (such as Italy or Greece), it increased in many member states traditionally egalitarian, such as the Nordic countries and the general trend remains up.

Increased participation in employment, better social expenses and fair taxation of income and top wealth can help to alleviate inequalities , the report shows.

Translated by
Denisse-Meda Bucura
MTTLC, Bucharest University