The European Policy Centre and the European Confederation of Independent Trade Unions (CESI) are pleased to invite you to a Policy Dialogue on Tuesday 14 May, on The public sector in times of economic crisis: what impact on growth and people’s well-being? The aim of this Policy Dialogue is to discuss the challenge of the economic crisis for the European public sector, evaluate risks and opportunities and look at alternative reforms.

The crisis has led to significant public sector restructuring and intensified the debate about the role of the public sector, in particular with regard to its impact on employment and economic policies, public finances and the social fabric. While some commentators see it as a key barrier to economic growth, others argue that the progressive retreat of the public sector has contributed to worsening the impact of the crisis on Europeans’ income, living conditions and well-being. It is still an open question, however, to what extent and how the public sector should be reformed in order to contribute to fiscal consolidation and, at the same time, meet the increased demand for public services.

This Policy Dialogue will shed light on possible reforms and debate the role of the EU in this area. Speakers include Koos Richelle, Director-General for DG Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion, in the European Commission, Romain Wolff, President of CESI, Hans Martens, EPC Chief Executive, Paul Buddery, Partner, 2020 Public Services Hub at Royal Society for the encouragement of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce (RSA), and Carlos Crespo, Public Services Sector Specialist at the ILO.

The event will be chaired by EPC Chief Economist Fabian Zuleeg. Simultaneous interpretation in French and English will be provided. We very much hope that you will attend.

Please confirm your participation by replying to n.news@epc.eu