ABSTRACT
Our agenda of structural reform requires a major adjustment effort. It will only work if it is fair and equitable. Because inequality is not sustainable. In some parts of Europe we are seeing a real social emergency. Rising poverty and massive levels of unemployment especially among our young people. That is why we must strengthen social cohesion. It is a feature that distinguishes European society from alternative models. Some say that, because of the crisis, the European Social model is dead. I do not agree. Yes we need to reform our economies and modernize our social protection systems. But an effective social protection system that helps those in need is not an obstacle to prosperity. It is indeed an indispensable part of it. (Manuel Barroso, President EU Commission, State of the Union 2012)
