The first five year evaluation of the employment guidelines

The European Parliament adopted its own-initiative report drafted by Herman SCHMID (EUL/NGL, Sweden) on the European Employment Strategy. (Please refer to the document dated 11/09/02.) The Commission was asked, in addition, to promote the integration of legal immigrants into the labour market in close cooperation with the European social partners and immigrant organisations. Parliament noted that the level of participation in the labour market of disadvantaged groups has not improved compared to the active population in general. The Commission should develop active employment policies for these groups according to their specific needs. Many Member States have not set any employment rates for women in their NAPs. The employment rate for women is still 5% below the Lisbon target. Statistically, their employment rate is around 17% below that for men. Finally, Member States' progress towards reconciling work and family life is still limited. They must set quantitative objectives for improving facilities for the care of children and other dependants and define specific national targets. Business also has a part to play in the family-friendly organisation of work.�