Economic and social rights

23.3.2015

Question for written answer P-004560-15
to the Commission
Rule 130
Hugues Bayet (S&D)

At his presentation to the LIBE Committee, the Director of the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights drew attention to the adverse effects of austerity policies currently being implemented in certain European countries.

He highlighted, in particular, the fact that budgetary austerity policies were undermining social and economic rights. Public spending cuts, especially to essential public services in employment and healthcare, fail to take into account the need to maintain a minimum level of service and do not meet obligations in terms of fundamental rights. For example, access to healthcare in countries such as Greece is becoming very difficult.

1. Does the Commission take into account fundamental rights when it draws up its economic and budgetary policies?

2. Why does the Commission continue to promote strict austerity policies when they have such an adverse effect on European citizens' quality of life and fundamental rights?